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 'high blood'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:58:30 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5179534&cid=t_446833_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fnot-enough-deep-sleep-could-raise-blood.html (Source: Sleep Education) Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5179534 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 21:22:00 +0100 5179534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103344&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fstrokes-are-quite-common-in-pregnant-women-how-can-they-be-prevented%2F2011.08.05 According to CDC, there has been a 54 percent increase in the number of pregnant women who’ve had strokes in 1995 to 1996 and in 2005 to 2006. While this may surprise some researchers, it certainly would not surprise clinicians who take care of pregnant women who have risk factors such as obesity, chronic hypertension or a lack of prenatal care. Ten percent of strokes occur in the first trimester, 40 percent during the second trimester and more than fifty percent occur during the post partum period and after the patient has been discharged home. Hypertension was the cause of one-third of stroke victims during pregnancy and fifty percent in the post partum period. Hypertension accounted for one-third of stroke cases during pregnancy and fifty percent in the post partum period. Many stroke... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103344 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:00:21 +0100 5103344 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069475&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhat-is-the-most-costly-healthcare-expenditure%2F2011.07.27 The National Institute for Healthcare Management Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization focused on healthcare. The foundation just published an excellent report on the distribution of  healthcare costs in the population. The results indicate that reducing healthcare cost is all about reducing and managing chronic diseases. U.S. healthcare spending has sharply increased between 2005 and 2009 by 23 percent from $2 trillion to $2.5 trillion per year. This is a result of a combination of factors. Chief among them is the increasing incidence of obesity. Who spends the money? (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Repairing the Healthcare System* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069475 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:00:54 +0100 5069475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062248&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdo-you-know-what-metabolic-syndrome-is%2F2011.07.24 People with metabolic syndrome are twice as likely to develop heart disease, and five times as likely to develop diabetes, as those who don’t have metabolic syndrome. But many people are not yet familiar with this relatively new term. Do you know what metabolic syndrome is? OECD Country Populations with a BMI > 30 (1996-2003) Metabolic syndrome is the combination of several medical problems associated with morbid obesity. In addition to obesity, these conditions include: (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Columbia University Department of Surgery Blog* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062248 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 12:00:10 +0100 5062248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008701&cid=t_446833_160_f&fid=36190&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.beautyramp.com%2F Dipika Sharma: Good Food? Bad Food?Are these foods really that bad for you? The moment you decide to go on a diet to lose weight you are bombarded with a list of food items that are banned to be eaten. This certainly demotivates you to delay your dieting plan. But here is the good news, despite these food being considered to play havoc with your weight, you can consume a few of the banned foods in appropriate proportions. The reason is that they are rich source of essential minerals and vitamins which our body needs to stay energetic and fit. You can now indulge in the once forbidden foods like pastas,eggs,breads,nuts, potatoes and chocolates. All you have to control is the intake amount to maintain a slender body and remain fit. Here goes the list of the once forbidden foods which you ... Skin Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008701 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 06:47:03 +0100 5008701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893917&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FaIPonxw6_os%2F One year after an analysis of five studies involving some 60,000 patients found links between angiotensin receptor blockers and an increased risk of cancer, the FDA has now decided that these meds - which are used to control high blood pressure, do not pose such a risk. The study, which was published in The Lancet Oncology and prompted the FDA review, found that 7.2 percent of patients on an ARB were diagnosed with cancer compared with 6 percent on a placebo, which was deemed statistically significant. Put another way: one extra cancer case would occur for every 105 people taking the meds for about four years (back story). Most of the patients were taking Boehringer Ingelheim’s Micardis, a $1.5 billion seller, prompting an angry rebuttal from the drugmaker. Other ARBs that were studied i... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893917 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:21:10 +0100 4893917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813287&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcould-a-low-salt-diet-be-bad-for-your-heart%2F2011.05.11 In this study of 3,681 men and women from Belgium, Bulgaria, Italy, Poland, Romania and Russia whose health was followed for eight years, participants with the lowest sodium excretion (which is a good measure of sodium intake) were 56% more likely to have died from cardiovascular disease than those with the highest sodium excretion. Among the nearly 2,100 participants with normal blood pressure at the study’s start, sodium excretion (sodium intake) had no effect on the development of high blood pressure. These are startling findings. If true, they would undercut major programs by the U.S. government to reduce Americans’ intake of salt—the main source of sodium—from prepared and processed foods and at home. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Harvard ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813287 Wed, 11 May 2011 16:00:07 +0100 4813287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507286&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fabout-white-coat-hypertension%2F2011.02.21 “But doc, my blood pressure is always normal at home.” I wish I had a dollar for every time I have heard that line and I know it is true. When some patients come to see me, their blood pressure is abnormally high (above 130/90). This is known as “white-coat hypertension.” Although it has been thought to be from anxiety about seeing the doctor, even long-established patients who have no conscious anxiety can exhibit elevated blood pressure in the office. Because blood pressure naturally fluctuates and the office visit is not a “normal” setting, it is important for patients who have high blood pressure (hypertension) to have their own blood pressure cuff at home. Now that devices are automated and easy to use, everyone with hypertension should be mo... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507286 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 20:00:00 +0100 4507286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429017&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwere-overdosing-on-sodium-whose-responsibility-is-it%2F2011.02.02 I confess to loving Campbell’s tomato bisque soup. I mix it with 1 percent-fat milk and it’s hot and delicious and comforting, but one of the worst food choices I could make because one cup contains more sodium than I should have in a day. Knowing this, I have already relegated it to an occasional treat. But by the end of this blog post I will do more. We are overdosing on sodium and it is killing us. We need to cut the sodium we eat daily by more than half. The guidelines keep coming. The U.S. government has handed out dietary guidelines telling Americans who are over 50, all African Americans, people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease to have no more than 1,500 milligrams (mg) — or two thirds of a teaspoon — of sodium daily. That’s the majorit... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429017 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4429017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4424235&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcardiovascular-care-costs-could-triple-by-2030%2F2011.02.01 Real total direct medical costs of cardiovascular disease (CVD) could triple, from $273 billion to $818 billion (in 2008 dollars) by 2030. Real indirect costs, such as lost productivity among the employed and unpaid household work, could increase 61 percent, from $172 billion in 2010 to $276 billion. Results appeared in a policy statement of the American Heart Association. CVD is the leading cause of mortality and accounts for 17 percent of national health expenditures, according to the statement. How much so? U.S. medical expenditures rose from 10 percent of the Gross Domestic Product in 1985 to 15 percent in 2008. In the past decade, the medical costs of CVD have grown at an average annual rate of 6 percent and have accounted for about 15 percent of the increase in medical spending... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4424235 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 18:00:00 +0100 4424235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419280&cid=t_446833_122_f&fid=35055&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sarasotaneurology.com%2Fmedia%2FSarasota-Neurology-Podcast-Stroke-Prevention-201102 In this episode of the Sarasota Neurology Podcast, Dr. Kassicieh, a recognized expert in stroke prevention, provides an overview of  current techniques for preventing and managing risk of stroke. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. This combined with heart attacks and heart disease result in over 2 million deaths a year. The common underlying cause is vascular disease or hardening of the arteries. Heart attack and stroke can be prevented with simple life style changes and medications. Treatment of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, aspirin and stop smoking will significantly lower risk of suffering from these devastating conditions. Listen to this report to find out how you can reduce your risk of suffering from a stroke, heart attack or other cardiovascu... Sarasota Neurology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419280 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 17:53:40 +0100 4419280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4414519&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdeep-brain-stimulation-a-new-treatment-for-hard-to-control-high-blood-pressure%2F2011.01.29 An unexpected discovery out of Frenchay Hospital in Bristol, UK showed that deep brain stimulation (DBS) can lower blood pressure, even in cases in which drugs are unsuccessful. The discovery reportedly occurred when a 55-year-old patient received a deep brain stimulator to treat his pain from central pain syndrome that developed after a stroke. At the time of the stroke, the patient was diagnosed with high blood pressure, which could not be controlled despite taking four different drugs. The deep brain stimulator was largely unsuccessful at controlling the patient’s pain, but amazingly it decreased his blood pressure enough that he could stop taking all four medications. Researchers confirmed the effects of the deep brain stimulator by turning it on and off over a three-year period,... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4414519 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 23:00:01 +0100 4414519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4337940&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fconsider-medical-conditions-before-jumping-on-the-new-years-resolution-diet-and-exercise-bandwagon%2F2011.01.11 The first week of January was full of news reports of giving advice on your new diet and exercise program to help you lose the weight you’ve always wanted to. In a previous post and video I talk about some do’s and don’ts when planning for your weight loss New Year’s resolution. In the video below, I talk about some medical issues to keep in mind before starting your program. For example, do you have a family history of medical problems like high blood pressure or diabetes? If so, you may want to schedule an appointment with your personal physician before jumping on the diet and exercise bandwagon. If you find this video helpful, I invite you to check out other TV interviews at MikeSevilla.TV. Enjoy! *This blog post was originally published at Doctor Ano... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4337940 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:00:00 +0100 4337940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4133872&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FQFKgd-UntvU%2F photo: Flickr user Sleeping Cat Beads We’re very opinionated when it comes to cats vs. dogs. Sorry canine-lovers, but a new study claims that cats make their owners happier and healthier than dogs. Theoretically, dog owners should be fairly healthy from all the hours they spend frolicking with their pups in the dog run, but apparently cleaning up messes on the living room floor and throwing away chewed-up shoes render all that exercise moot. And studies show that cats lower their owners’ blood pressure by reducing stress. So all those old ladies who live with their two dozen cats? Not sad and lonely at all. In fact, they could be healthier and happier than you are. Now, dog lovers: We’re ready for your protestations. Let us know why your perfect poochie makes you happier ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4133872 Wed, 03 Nov 2010 16:27:25 +0100 4133872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4022439&cid=t_446833_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Firregular-sleep-in-early-pregnancy.html (Source: Sleep Education) Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4022439 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:46:00 +0100 4022439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4001687&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmy-patient-the-health-nut%2F2010.09.25 A version of the following post, by Kimberly Manning, FACP, appeared on the blog “Life at Grady.” “My blood pressure is still borderline? Man!” “Yeah…and from looking through the chart, it was 150/96 on your admission. It’s pretty much been that since you’ve been here, give or take a few points. That’s a little more than borderline, actually.” I paused for a moment, realizing that I sounded a bit discouraging. “I don’t think this would be hard to get under control at all, sir. I mean…you’re such a motivated patient, you know?” I studied my patient carefully. He was in his late thirties, although he could totally pass for a twenty-something all day, every day. His skin looked like someone had grabbed ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4001687 Sat, 25 Sep 2010 17:00:00 +0100 4001687 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3913293&cid=t_446833_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F29%2Fpepsis-new-designer-salt-healthy-or-health-hazard%2F You may have heard in the news recently that PepsiCo created a salt for its Lay’s potato chips (and other Frito products) that will reduce salt content. At first glance, it seems like a gimmick. You might even think they are trying to make people think that their snack products are healthier. But, there’s actually more to it than that. I talked with the Director of Public Relations and Marketing, Aurora Gonzalez, about the new salt and got some interesting health-related information. Frito-Lay cares about making a good product. They were the first company to remove trans fats in favor of sunflower oil. They are thinking about sodium in terms of “if there is something we can do, we should do it.” They know people are concerned about salt intake. They also know that people like seas... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3913293 Sun, 29 Aug 2010 06:35:39 +0100 3913293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3780586&cid=t_446833_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F23%2Fdash-your-way-to-a-healthier-heart%2F This article is part of a series on simple things everyone can do to keep their heart healthy and strong. (Source: Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog) Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3780586 Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:10:57 +0100 3780586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3729877&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcan-sugar-raise-your-blood-pressure%2F2010.07.06 Most of us know that salt raises blood pressure in many people. When I learned that in medical school almost 40 years ago, I have not touched a salt shaker since. I enjoy having a low normal blood pressure. A new study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology (July 2010) suggests that sugar, especially the fructose that comes from corn syrup, may also raise blood pressure. A study team from the University of Colorado in Denver looked at sugar intake among thousands of Americans in a major national nutrition survey between 2003 and 2006. Those who consumed more added sugars, such as the fructose in soft drinks, had significantly higher blood pressures than those who did not and ate more natural foods such as fresh fruit. Fructose from corn syrup is a major cause of the... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3729877 Tue, 06 Jul 2010 15:00:00 +0100 3729877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3662643&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2F183067%2F Blood Pressure Drugs Connected to Cancer: Patients taking blood pressure drugs were 1.2% more likely to develop cancer than patients were are not. (via U.S. News and World Report) Post from: BlissTree (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3662643 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:00:03 +0100 3662643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3569805&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fim-your-doctor-and-im-worth-it%2F2010.05.16 I saw the note on the patient’s chart before I opened the door: “Patient is upset that he had to come in.” I opened the door and was greeted by a gentleman with his arms crossed tightly across his chest and a stern expression. I barely recognized him, having only seen him a handful of times over the past few years. Scrawled on the patient history sheet in the space for the reason for his visit were the words, “Because I was forced to come in.” My stomach churned. I opened his chart and looked at his problem list, which included high blood pressure and high cholesterol –- both treated with medications. He was last in my office in November — of 2008. I blinked, looked up at his scowling face, and frowned back. ”You haven’t been in the office for over 18 months. It was r... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3569805 Sun, 16 May 2010 22:00:46 +0100 3569805 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3467712&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Fwant-to-get-happy-first-get-angry%2F photo: Thinkstock Last week, a college friend and I reunited via text. She’d read my recent post on Blisstree, and wanted to talk about her new-ish blog. She said her blog was a great idea because it finally put her “foul mouth to good use.” The more I thought about it, I remembered this woman, Heaven Beiene-Carthon, during college. She never seemed to get stressed. As far as I could recall, she’d never been sick – not even with a cold. Now, to top it all off, she was living a fabulous life as the wife of an NFL scout and mom of two beautiful girls. After my jealousy simmered down to a manageable level, I came up with a list of what it means to be her. That’s when it hit me: She makes her own rules. She is loud and aggressive; she gets angry and lets you know it; and she’... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3467712 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 19:05:48 +0100 3467712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443933&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fthe-jurys-still-out-on-victoza.html Novo Nordisk is well-known in the diabetes community for its insulins, Novolog and Levemir, used to treat mainly type 1 diabetes. But in the last year, Novo launched a new kind of injectable, a “first line of defense for people with type 2 diabetes” called Victoza (generic: liraglutide). It’s a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drug designed [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443933 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:00:37 +0100 3443933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3359049&cid=t_446833_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F12%2Fmaintain-your-memory-as-you-age%2F You can’t stop it — the natural aging process that ages not only our bodies, but our brains too. Normal aging doesn’t significantly impact our thinking, however. Most people do not suffer from significant memory problems, deficits in problem-solving, or issues with thinking through activities that require analysis and reasoning. Still, things that may have come to us quickly when we were younger may take a little bit more time as we get older. And these slow-downs come not only in memory, but in something that psychologists call executive function, too. According to information provided by The Harvard Health Letter, “Executive function is an umbrella term for the complex thinking required to make choices, plan, initiate action, and inhibit impulses. Executive funct... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3359049 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:55:15 +0100 3359049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262696&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FWJD99zQCRy4%2F There have been studies, off and on, about possible connections between migraines and strokes, but newest research is showing that there is also a connection between migraines and heart attacks. It’s important to understand that migraines are not simply very bad headaches. Migraines are a condition on their own and are not restricted to pain in the head. They can cause, among other things: Visual disturbances Sensitivity to light, sound, touch Nausea Vomiting Balance problems And now, researchers from Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University say that people with migraines have twice the risk of having a heart attack than people who don’t have migraines. They also found: that migraine sufferers also face increased risk for stroke and were more likely to have k... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262696 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:11:57 +0100 3262696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3239762&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FhNYETT7DRPc%2Fwhere-the-hell-is-my-insulin.php I hate when I take some insulin to bring down a high, and when I check two or three hours later I am exactly where I was when I started.  It's like "what happened to that insulin I took?"I know that I must have been rising, and the insulin curbed the rise (or I went higher and came back down again).  But at first glance it just seems like that insulin I took disappeared.  This type of thing is really scary when the amount of insulin taken is a LOT (relative to my daily dose).  Or (has this ever happened to you?) I bolus for a snack, then something happens and I don't eat, but never go low?  What the heck?  Does that mean I would have been super high if I would have eaten that snack? Makes me scratch my noggin sometimes. (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3239762 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:39:40 +0100 3239762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3208316&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2010%2F01%2F26%2Fdiabetes-symptoms-type-1-diabetes%2F Filed under: CareRecognizing the symptoms of diabetes can often help you get a proper diagnosis and treatment. There are currently 5.7 million people who have undiagnosed diabetes in the United States, according to the American Diabetes Association. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes usually come on quickly within days or weeks. The following can be signs of type 1 diabetes: Your appetite has increased, and you're still losing weight. You're fatigued or irritable. Your vision is blurry. You're dehydrated. Once diagnosed, you will still experience high and low blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels develop slowly. Low blood sugar levels can develop in minutes. Symptoms of low blood sugar include sweating, weakness and hunger. Symptoms of high blood sugar include increased... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208316 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3208316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172203&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F79WEYfGWBKA%2F Another day, another deadline. But this is a busy world, after all. And what better way to prepare than to keep up with events. So, as you gird for the challenges ahead, here are a few items to help you along. As for us, we will reach for our usual cup of stimulation. Have a good day, everyone… FDA Issues New Guidance To IRBs On Multi-Site Trials (OutsourcingPharma) US Pharmacopeia Recalls New Edition Of USP-NF (statement) Glaxo Forms Global Media Team (PR Week) Blood Pressure Drugs May Cut Dementia Risk (Bloomberg News) Glaxo Sees Little Generic Threat To Advair (Reuters) (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172203 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 12:01:24 +0100 3172203 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089552&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FNmFBEb5a29E%2F The irony of a failed blood pressure drug is that it can raise the blood pressure of the folks who pushed for its development. And so the Gilead Sciences team is likely to feel a spike after saying their darusentan med failed a Phase III study and development is now discontinued (see here). The once-daily pill didn’t lower blood pressure compared with placebo in patients with resistant hypertension. The decision is a sobering reminder that acquiring another company can be risky. Three years ago, Gilead paid $2.6 billion for Myogen (see here), which boasted two lead candidates for treating high blood pressure, including - you guessed it - darusentan. Wall Street had actually already discounted the drug, but that was due to side effects, not efficacy. “This may disappoint some in... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089552 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:15:40 +0100 3089552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033643&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F_K_33PKyicQ%2F Herbal supplements seem like a safe bet to many people because they’re natural. While this may have some merit, many poisons are natural too – just think of what can happen if you eat the wrong type of mushroom. So, it’s important to know not only what herbal supplement you are taking, but what its effects are overall. You don’t want something that is supposed to help you end up causing more harm. To show you how this can be, a study out of Massachusetts, published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, found that some herbal supplements can raise the level of lead in women’s blood, sometimes to unsafe levels. The researchers studied 12,807 men and women who were at least 20 years old. What they found was that there was an average 10% increase in blood l... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033643 Thu, 26 Nov 2009 23:47:36 +0100 3033643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023207&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2Fl2Fbzvhw8-4%2F If this wasn’t such a serious topic, I’d say “what’s new?” but it is serious. Seniors who take sleeping pills and/or antidepressants are at a higher risk of falling and sustaining a serious injury than those who don’t take those drugs. Other medications that can increase the fall risk include blood pressure pills (they can make blood pressure go too low sometimes), so-called water pills (these diuretics can make so the senior rushes to the bathroom before having an accident and then falls or they have to get up in the middle of the night, which is a dangerous time for falls), and narcotics/opioids for pain. These falls are huge worry because complications from falls, specifically hip fractures, are the fifth leading cause of death among seniors, say rese... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023207 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:38:09 +0100 3023207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2871395&cid=t_446833_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fsleep-apnea-children-hurting-heart.html A new study in the Oct. 1 issue of the journal Sleep examined how obstructive sleep apnea affects heart rate and blood pressure in children.The study involved 15 boys and 15 girls in Australia; they were between the ages of 7 and 12 years. Ten children had primary snoring; 10 had mild sleep apnea with an average of 2.5 breathing pauses per hour of sleep; and 10 had moderate to severe OSA with a mean of 15.2 breathing pauses per hour of sleep.The children were monitored during an overnight sleep study in a sleep lab. Heart rate and blood pressure were analyzed before, during and after obstructive breathing pauses.Results show that the children had significant changes in heart rate and blood pressure. From the last half of a breathing pause to the 15 seconds after a pause, blood pressure inc... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2871395 Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:16:00 +0100 2871395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2852048&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2FTBaltQIRkWA%2Fmicrosoft-releases-my-heatlh-info.html (Source: ePharma Summit) ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2852048 Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:53:00 +0100 2852048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2789060&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FrUQmgU86UQk%2F Pass the salt! Or rather, don’t. A new study says that if Americans were to simply cut their salt intake back they could “save billions of dollars in health care costs.” The recommended amount is supposed to be 2,300 mg per day, and Americans get 3,300 mg. The study suggests that if Americans consumed less sodium, eleven million people would not get high blood pressure – which would save on costs for medication, treatments for heart disease, fallout from stroke, and other related issues. Where does all the salt come from? Surprisingly, the largest amounts come not from our own salt shakes, but from packaged foods and from eating out. Fast food is a big culprit in this. The study advises us to read packages, avoid the higher salted foods when eating out, and of cou... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2789060 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 14:52:55 +0100 2789060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2758032&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fwayback-wednesday-crap-high-blood-sugar.html Four years ago, I got really upset when my blood sugar surged. If you asked me then, I’d have sworn that in four year’s time, I’d have it all figured out and these surges would be a thing of the past - hah!! Thus, I bring you, from October 2005, an all-time favorite [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2758032 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:00:53 +0100 2758032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2730157&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FpUO6ChSrAQc%2F If you’re middle-aged and have high blood pressure, anywhere from 140/90 or higher, you may have trouble with your memory as well. An interesting study, published in the most recent issue of the journal Neurology, found that people over the age of 45 years who had a high lower blood pressure number, the diastolic number had a higher chance of having memory or cognitive problems than those who are normotensive, or have normal diastolic blood pressure numbers. Researchers looked at almost 20,000 people who were over 45 years old. According to a press release from American Academy of Neurology, For every 10 point increase in the reading, the odds of a person having cognitive problems was seven percent higher. The results were valid after adjusting for other factors that could affect co... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2730157 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:56:50 +0100 2730157 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2724928&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FHAbBie6dkKU%2F West Virginia wins the titled of most medicated state in the U.S., according to one recent report. The state fills “17.7 prescriptions per capita compared to a national average of 11.5.” Why so much medicine? Experts believe it’s because of many chronic conditions and lack of exercise. The south in general has higher medication rates. “Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Kentucky and Missouri also have prescription drug-use rates well above the national average.” My first question when I heard this, was what type of medicine are they taking? The answer is lisinopril, a high-blood pressure drug. West Virginians, not surprisingly, have higher rates of heart disease the rest of the country as well. The majority of the population, some seve... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2724928 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 11:59:04 +0100 2724928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2712305&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36012&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FBattleDiabetes%2F%7E3%2FXvVkO3C58X4%2F Here’s a video about a woman who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes after a routine physical with her Doctor. She goes on to describe how her doctor said that blood should be the consistancy of water but when she lanced her finger it was more like syrup sticking between her fingers. “It is a miracle you are still standing.” the Doctor told her. Related Posts Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes – What Do I Do Now? Type 2 Diabetes Raises the Risk of Parkinsons Disease (Source: Battle Diabetes Blog) Battle Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2712305 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:39:04 +0100 2712305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2712331&cid=t_446833_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FDCwP7lo4PZY%2Fhigh-cholesterol-levels-in-your-40s.html I wrote about this issue for the first during April, 2008 --High cholesterol levels in your 40s may raise the chance of developing Alzheimer's disease. Last week, this study of more than 9,000 Californians came back into the news with a newer updated version in the journal Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive DisordersIn the study, People underwent detailed health evaluations between 1964 and 1973 when they were ages 40 to 45, including blood cholesterol measurements. The researchers then looked at the cholesterol measurements of the 504 people in the study who developed Alzheimer's disease decades later.The researchers found that people with moderately elevated cholesterol in their 40s have twice the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in their 60s, 70s and 80s. These findings should serve... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2712331 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:30:26 +0100 2712331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2674455&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fwayback-wednesday-crap-high-blood-sugar.html Four years ago, I got really upset when my blood sugar surged. If you asked me then, I’d have sworn that in four year’s time, I’d have it all figured out and these surges would be a thing of the past - hah!! Thus, I bring you, from October 2005, an all-time favorite [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2674455 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 13:00:53 +0100 2674455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2667499&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FoxCPpiVZz_g%2F Doctors and researchers have been noticing a decline in vitamin D levels in children for a while now but the problem is getting worse. With the increasingly sedentary and inside-the-home lifestyle of many American children, and the high use of sun block for those who do go outside, many just aren’t getting sufficient levels of vitamin D from the best source, the sun. Although we know it’s important to protect our skin from the sun to reduce the risk of skin cancer, as with everything, moderation and common sense needs to take hold. Unless their skin is very fragile, five to 10 minutes in the sun without sunscreen shouldn’t do any harm to their skin, but will be very beneficial for vitamin exposure. By removing the sun from a child’s life altogether, they are at high... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2667499 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:09:36 +0100 2667499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2660789&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F82K8UGxYpQQ%2F Fans of the fabulous writer E. Lynn Harris were saddened to learn that he had passed away last week. Now, a coroner’s report confirms that he died of heart disease combined with high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries. He was only 54. At first the official report was that he died of natural causes. But natural causes at 54? I’m glad they did an autopsy and found the real reason. Harris, for those of you that don’t know, was a pioneer in writing. He had ten New York Times best sellers, and over four million books in print. Amazing. We will miss him. Image: Zuma Press Share and Enjoy: Post from: Blisstree E. Lynn Harris Died of Heart Disease (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2660789 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 12:00:20 +0100 2660789 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2637635&cid=t_446833_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F07%2Fhigh-blood-pressure-obstructive-sleep.html A new study adds to the evidence linking obstructive sleep apnea to an increased risk of high blood pressure.The study involved 529 men and 207 women with OSA. The severity of their sleep apnea varied widely.Their average apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ranged from five to 197 breathing pauses per hour of sleep; the mean AHI was 36. An AHI of more than 30 is considered “severe” OSA.Participants with sleep apnea were compared with a control group; it comprised 154 men and 161 women who did not have OSA.Results show that the odds of high blood pressure increased with increasing AHI; the risk also rose with increasing age and average body mass index (BMI). Among the most obese subjects, men were almost twice as likely as women to have high blood pressure.The NHLBI reports that about one in thr... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2637635 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 20:31:00 +0100 2637635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2630190&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FDX5AhFxZl4E%2F Some people think that if you have diabetes, you pretty much just have to lay off the sugar and you’re set. Au contraire. There’s so much more to the disease, and so many other complications you can get as a result. One of them even involves the skin. Some diabetics can get diabeteic dermopathy, which shows itself as “oval, light brown, scaly patches found most often on the front of the legs.” This is the result of damage done to the blood vessels, and how the skin responds. There is good news, however, if you have this disease. The patches don’t hurt or itch, and they aren’t dangerous. (More of a visual nuisance than anything.) Image: sxc.hu. Share and Enjoy: Post from: Blisstree Diabetic Skin Disease (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2630190 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:42:22 +0100 2630190 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591587&cid=t_446833_122_f&fid=35055&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsarasotaneurology.com%2F2009%2F07%2F10%2Fcoffee-tea-reduce-risk-of-stoke-and-tia%2F In conclusion, it is clear from the available data published in several medical journals, such as Stroke and Circulation, that there is a significant reduction in rate and prevalence of TIA, stroke and stroke symptoms with daily consumption of tea and/or coffee. Higher coffee consumption appears to be associated with a greater reduction in stroke prevalence. This in combination with a healthy diet, exercise of any kind and optimized medical therapy will provide individuals with the greatest protection against having a stroke and stroke prevention. (Source: Sarasota Neurology) Sarasota Neurology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591587 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:37:54 +0100 2591587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2752039&cid=t_446833_122_f&fid=35055&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsarasotaneurology.com%2F2009%2F07%2F10%2Fcoffee-tea-reduce-risk-of-stroke-and-tia%2F In conclusion, it is clear from the available data published in several medical journals, such as Stroke and Circulation, that there is a significant reduction in rate and prevalence of TIA, stroke and stroke symptoms with daily consumption of tea and/or coffee. Higher coffee consumption appears to be associated with a greater reduction in stroke prevalence. This in combination with a healthy diet, exercise of any kind and optimized medical therapy will provide individuals with the greatest protection against having a stroke and stroke prevention. (Source: Sarasota Neurology) Sarasota Neurology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2752039 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:33:53 +0100 2752039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442048&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=38158&url=http%3A%2F%2Famericanacupuncture.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fsilent-killer-hbp.html As a medical physician for over 50 years, I strive to give you the best medical information on controversial medical subjects and let you, the reader, come to your own conclusions. I have no ties to any organization, pharmaceutical, or lobby group. As an practicing medical acupuncturist since 1982, I find western medicine and medical acupuncture are very complimentary that results in astounding healing in pain management, addictions to cigarettes and food, and a host of other maladies. Let me know how we are doing. Your constructive comments are always appreciated. Click the RSS post button on the upper right hand corner if you would like to receive by email our future medical blogs. Visit http;//www.americanacupuncture.com/ for more detailed information on healing.THE SILENT MEDICAL KILLE... Dr. Needles Medical Blogs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442048 Tue, 26 May 2009 21:01:00 +0100 2442048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2424224&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FVNKACRhgrGU%2F Here’s a head scratcher if ever there was one. Apparently obese people are better able to fight heart disease, especially against the condition’s worst effects. This is a phenomenon they’re calling the “obesity paradox.” While obesity helps contribute to things like heart disease and high blood pressure, the obese also seem to do better at rebounding better than lean patients. One belief is that obese people visit their doctors at the first sign of symptoms, while another thought is that “something in the excess fat cells of obese people might have a protective value.” Make no mistake, however, that being obese is STILL a bad thing! The reason people get heart disease to begin with is because they are obese. So if you’ve got weight to lose, ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2424224 Tue, 19 May 2009 23:39:15 +0100 2424224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2398859&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FAfqznWcZto0%2F May is High Blood Pressure Awareness Month. That means it’s time to get checked to make sure your numbers are in the normal range. High blood sugar is called “the silent killer” because it essentially has no warning signs. About a third of the people that have it don’t even know. The normal range of blood pressure is 120/80 or less. It’s recommended that lifestyle changes, like exercising and eating right, are done to lower blood sugar before going on medication. Image: sxc.hu. Share and Enjoy: Post from: Blisstree Treating High Blood Pressure (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2398859 Thu, 07 May 2009 11:01:11 +0100 2398859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2381352&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FBvtZH9occb4%2F We already have a 2-in-1 high blood pressure/high cholesterol drug on the market, called Caduet, but now the FDA has approved a 3 in 1, called Exforge HCT. The new pill is a combination of a calcium channel blocker, angiotensin receptor blocker and diuretic - so-called water pills. Here is the press release issued by the manufacturer, Novartis: FDA approves Exforge HCT(R) - the Only High Blood Pressure Treatment to Combine Three Medications in a Single Pill EAST HANOVER, N.J., April 30 /PRNewswire/ — The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Exforge HCT (amlodipine, valsartan, hydrochlorothiazide), the only blood pressure (BP) treatment to combine three medications in a single pill. Exforge HCT combines the number one prescribed calcium channel blocker, angiotensin rece... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2381352 Fri, 01 May 2009 09:00:26 +0100 2381352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2353770&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fbreastfeeding123%2Fheart-health-for-breastfeeding-mothers%2F Researchers have long known that breastfeeding mothers benefit from less incidence of breast and ovarian cancer and type II diabetes than formula-feeding mothers. A new study shows yet more strong correlation between breastfeeding and lower rates of diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Photo courtesy of Karen Barefoot Nearly 140,000 post-menopausal women were studied in the Women’s Health Initiative. According to the Vancouver Sun (via One Small Step for Breastfeeding…), the study revealed breastfeeding’s heart health benefits on three levels: 1. Risk Factors. Women who breastfed their babies had lower incidence of the following three risk factors for heart disease: diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. 2. Cardiovascular Disease. Women who had never breastfe... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2353770 Wed, 22 Apr 2009 02:16:02 +0100 2353770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2313763&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F8IIR71QVv24%2F I’ve never thought those energy drinks were a very good idea anyway, but now research suggests that they can be especially bad for people with high blood pressure or heart disease. Research showed that “the subjects’ average heart rate increased 7.8 percent the first day and 11 percent the seventh day. Blood pressure increased at least 7 percent the first and seventh days.” So if you already have high blood pressure, this could prove problematic. Researchers were quick to point out that energy drinks are not the same as sports drinks. Sports drinks help “replenish carbohydrates and electrolytes” after a workout. Energy drinks do that. In other words? Choose your beverages carefully. Image: sxc.hu. (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2313763 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:02:05 +0100 2313763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2313777&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FdHisEd6QAzA%2F Dealing with insomnia each night may cause you more harm than just a groggy morning after. Two new studies point to a “rise in blood pressure” and an “increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior” as part of the possible outcomes that can occur when you don’t get enough sleep. People that had insomnia for a year or longer and slept less than five hours a night were “five times as likely to have high blood pressure.” This confirms that the power is sleep is important. If you are having trouble that you think might be insomnia, seek medical attention. Image: sxc.hu. (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2313777 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 20:04:09 +0100 2313777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2318537&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fzimney-health-and-medical-news-you-can-use%2Fyou-and-salt-not-so-perfect-together%2F Since nearly 70 percent of adult Americans have risk factors that warrant their reducing the amount of sodium they consume each day, the odds are high that you should pay attention to the following information and heed its advice. And since the national average daily sodium intake is already much higher than what’s recommended even for the 30 percent of people who don’t have risk factors, the odds are overwhelming that you are currently eating too much salt every day; the only question being how much you need to cut back? First let’s look at the 70 percent of adults who have risk factors. The risk factors are: High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) -31 percent of adults All people over age 40 - 34 percent of adults All black Americans – 4 percent of adults The people i... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2318537 Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:58:23 +0100 2318537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2297304&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2Fo4OTOIwFS4c%2Fwayback-wednesday---still-high.php Courtesy of the "Wayback Machine", I bring you the early entries I made in my online diabetes journal.  This was back before Blogger made things easy, and I had to write the entries in HTML.  The journal is no longer available, but thanks to the wonderful tools available on the internet, I was able to find much of my old stuff.  I'd like to share one of the old... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2297304 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0100 2297304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276538&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F03%2Fode-to-euglycemia.html I can’t believe I’ve lived with diabetes for five years now and never knew the term for my ultimate goal: euglycemia. That’s a fancy science word for “normal blood sugar levels.” Since I’ve discovered this term, I’ve become just a tad obsessed. Did you know Google spits out 52,900 hits for it?  [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276538 Fri, 20 Mar 2009 13:00:40 +0100 2276538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2266829&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FNwRBOxmar18%2F Have you just been told you have diabetes or know someone who has? It’s a complicated disease. It can be managed fairly well, but it takes thought and preparation most of the time. It’s not a disease that you can forget about. One of the first things you learn is how to test your own blood sugar levels. At first, it seems like it’s so often, that your fingers are like pin cushions. This does get better. Your fingers may not get entirely used to it, but most often, the frequency of testing goes down as you become more controlled and aware of your body. What are those numbers? Your blood sugar levels can range wildly from below 2.0 mmol/L in a severe hypoglycemic crisis to above 24, heading towards a serious hyperglycemic crisis. The idea blood sugar levels are between 4.0... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2266829 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 12:47:08 +0100 2266829 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2266841&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FpvkHbwOL9O8%2F We’ve known for a long time that high blood pressure and strokes hit African Americans much more often and frequently harder than whites. With all the studies and research going on, there is an anticipation that we should be making progess in dealing with this. The facts are: African Americans are twice as likely to die from stroke as whites First strokes in African Americans are almost twice of whites African American men, aged 45 to 54 years old, have 3 x a higher risk of having an ischemic stroke (brain tissue deprived of nutrients) than their white counterparts A new study from the University of South Florida Health , has found that “Florida, black young adults are hospitalized for stroke at a rate three times higher than their white and Hispanic peers.” Other findi... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2266841 Fri, 13 Mar 2009 20:38:42 +0100 2266841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2258800&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=36026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Fzimney-health-and-medical-news-you-can-use%2Fvitamin-d-deficiency-and-you%2F This is important, so listen up! It seems that every day there’s more news about the health risks associated with vitamin D deficiency, which might not be a problem if there weren’t also news nearly every day that few of us are getting enough vitamin D each day. We’re not getting enough either from our diets or from sun exposure, which are the two main sources not counting supplements (which are probably what you should be taking, by the way). Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to various bone problems as well as to diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular disorders, a variety of cancers as well as to infections, including recently to the development of the common cold. The list of illnesses associated with vitamin D deficienc... Dr. Z's Medical Report blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2258800 Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:40:21 +0100 2258800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2654074&cid=t_446833_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2009%2F02%2F24%2Fmore-potassium-less-sodium%2F A new study published in January’s Issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine is demonstrating that the ratio of sodium to potassium may be more important than the amount of sodium or potassium alone. Senior author Dr. Paul Whelton from Loyloa University Health System was quoted as saying: There isn’t as much focus on potassium, but potassium seems to be effective in lowering blood pressure and the combination of a higher intake of potassium and lower consumption of sodium seems to be more effective than either on its own in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Potassium Rich Foods In general, the more processed a food is, the more sodium and less potassium a food has. The diagram from the textbook Understanding Nutrition shows the differences in how much sodium vs. pot... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2654074 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:50:49 +0100 2654074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2228351&cid=t_446833_167_f&fid=37833&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnutrition.edublogs.org%2F2009%2F02%2F24%2Fmore-potassium-less-sodium%2F A new study published in January’s Issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine is demonstrating that the ratio of sodium to potassium may be more important than the amount of sodium or potassium alone. Senior author Dr. Paul Whelton from Loyloa University Health System was quoted as saying: There isn’t as much focus on potassium, but potassium seems to be effective in lowering blood pressure and the combination of a higher intake of potassium and lower consumption of sodium seems to be more effective than either on its own in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Potassium Rich Foods In general, the more processed a food is, the more sodium and less potassium a food has. The diagram from the textbook Understanding Nutrition shows the differences in how much sodium vs. pot... Nutrition and Wellness Biology 50 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2228351 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:50:49 +0100 2228351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2141492&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FB_W0fdA4QKw%2F CRP or an inflammatory marker is a protein that is made when there is inflammation present in the body. CRP inflammation can be caused by high blood pressure, high blood sugar or smoking, it is also the way your body reacts to injury or infection. CRP(C-reactive protein) inflammation encourages plaque to form in the blood vessels. This plaque will eventually cause the blood vessels to rupture causing a heart attack or stroke. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is often shortened to CPR. When your health care provider is explaining your disorder they will usually use the term CRP.  You will see CRP in written articles also. If you are experiencing any health problems related to your heart make an appointment with your health care provider immediately. Be sure to tell them at t... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2141492 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:00:00 +0100 2141492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2137874&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FmlU64E525UE%2F With Valentine’s Day just around the corner you may want to consider giving your love, a heart healthy treat. For those of us with partner’s that have high blood pressure or heart problems that love their sweets, this article is a great find. Dark chocolate may be just what the answer you are looking for. Do you know that cocoa is actually a fruit? We all know that fruits are good for us. Researchers have found a link that shows cocoa and dark chocolate aid in the fight against cardiovascular disease.  The studies show reduced risk for blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. Food scientists at Cornell University found that there are twice the antioxidants in cocoa as were in red wine. The study also stated that there were three times more antioxidants in cocoa than found in green... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2137874 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 15:00:00 +0100 2137874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2512546&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36985&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsugarstats%2F%7E3%2F1UWDJL5DT5w%2F Ok, so yesterday after 20 plus units of insulin, I was reminded why I don’t and havent eaten a Big Mac and fries for probably over 5 years. I think I figured out this 57 million people with Pre-diabetes thing…Wow One of those, I’m low I better eat big kinda brain sequences..A brain starving for sugar [...] (Source: SugarStats.com - Simple, Online Blood Sugar Tracking for Diabetes Management) SugarStats.com - Simple, Online Blood Sugar Tracking for Diabetes Management blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2512546 Wed, 21 Jan 2009 14:14:06 +0100 2512546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2110769&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FSFD7PKz8iUE%2F Heavy snow falls across Canada and the U.S. have caused a jump in admissions to the hospitals, due to heart attacks, strokes and back injuries. Exertion from shoveling snow and slipping on the ice has taken its toll. Trying to clear the drive in a short time is not wise. Shoveling snow is a very strenuous activity. Those with back or heart problems, high blood pressure or breathing difficulties should not even think of tackling the job. Before shoveling snow do not drink coffee or any drinks that contain caffeine, no liquor or smoking these are known stimulants. Anything that increases your heart rate will cause extra stress on the heart.   Before 10am on Christmas day at one hospital, there were five heart attack patients admitted that were all related to shoveling snow. Resear... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2110769 Fri, 16 Jan 2009 16:04:00 +0100 2110769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2092709&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FkVZ8B7Mj3qA%2F A young healthy 6 foot 8 inch swimmer, in his sophomore in college, called his stepmother to tell her that he could not swim until he had seen a doctor. The couch at his new college Fordham University in New York had taken his blood pressure and stated that it was too high. Like most young people Danny Thrall thought he was young and athletic what could be wrong with him, other than something minor. His test revealed that his aorta was greatly enlarged; this was due to a leaky valve. The doctor advised Danny that the surgery would have to be done quickly. During the surgery part of his aorta and valve would have to be removed and replaced with a mechanical version. Danny flew home to Chicago for his surgery. This was not the first time Danny had undergone heart surgery, when he was six m... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2092709 Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:53:30 +0100 2092709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074611&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FAp5DYSTpTWQ%2F Before you start any drug regiment, make sure to ask your health care provider first. This is even more important if you have any health issues. Some over the counter drugs can cause problems for a number of people, especially those with heart problems and high blood pressure. Not everyone can take an aspirin daily due to the fact some people are resistant to them. Women have proven to be more likely to be resistant to the blood-thinning effects of aspirin. An aspirin daily is used by millions of people to prevent heart attacks. The aspirin breaks up platelets in the blood that could eventually form blood clots. I found this information on the CNN health, click on the CNN site to view more information.  Tags: aspirin, blood clots, heart-attack, high-blood-pressureShare This (So... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074611 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:00:35 +0100 2074611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2053201&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F489050514%2F New patient therapy starts in the cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure markets - three of the biggies - will be relatively flat in 2009 compared to previous years, with growth expected to be lower than 5 percent in each, according to SDI, a market research firm. “The indication that many patients are going without healthcare coverage, and sometimes their medications, does not bode well for how many new patients will begin prescription therapy in 2009,” says John Ross, SDI’s chief operating officer, in a statement. New patient therapy starts, for those who are unaware, refers to patients who have never before taken a particular med. For the cholesterol market, for instance, SDI projects growth of just 3 percent in new patient therapy starts next year. The diabet... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2053201 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 22:35:24 +0100 2053201 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1996751&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F468342767%2F In 2002, one of the biggest clinical trials ever organized by the USl government found that generic high-blood pressure pills, which had been in use since the 1950s and cost only pennies a day, worked better than newer drugs that were up to 20 times as expensive. The implication was that billions of dollars could be saved in treating tens of millions of people with hypertension. Six years later, though, the use of the pills, called diuretics, is far smaller than some trial organizers had hoped. The percentage of hypertension patients receiving a diuretic rose to around 40 percent in the year after the Allhat results were announced, up from 30 to 35 percent beforehand, The New York Times writes. But usage has plateaued. And over all, use of newer hypertension drugs has grown faster than use... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1996751 Fri, 28 Nov 2008 13:41:22 +0100 1996751 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1961383&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36012&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBattleDiabetes%2F%7E3%2F452377968%2F Here’s a video about a woman who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes after a routine physical with her Doctor. She goes on to describe how her doctor said that blood should be the consistancy of water but when she lanced her finger it was more like syrup sticking between her fingers. “It is a miracle you are still standing.” the Doctor told her. Related posts:Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes - What Do I Do Now? You are newly diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and you...Even A Small Weight Loss Benefits Type 2 Diabetes We know that Type 2 Diabetes is directly linked to...Cutting the Simple Carbs and Increasing Quality Protein With Egg Whites This whole dietary balancing act can get frustrating sometimes. As... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin. (... Battle Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1961383 Fri, 14 Nov 2008 01:19:48 +0100 1961383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1852701&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F8hFps_E72P4%2F High blood pressure among our children… Working in an urgent care facility, I see every single age group and demographic every single time I work. But I am getting very bothered by the number of children whose blood pressure is alarmingly high! I mean like 152/96 and 146/94. That is no joke high!! What will happen to these children if there are no changes made?And I know that this is not very clinical and exactly factual, but most of these kids are overweight. Before you write a comment saying that I shouldn’t make generalizations, remember that I said it was a very broad statement and observation, and I said the word MOST. Have you come across this? Have you heard anything first hand? Is your child’s blood pressure normal? Do you worry about heart disease among your chil... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1852701 Sat, 04 Oct 2008 15:45:25 +0100 1852701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1841165&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FoGAov3i_u6Y%2F Top 10 Hearty Trivia Facts 1. Author of Frankenstein Mary Shelley kept her dead husband’s, poet Percy Shelley, heart wrapped in silk until she died. Imagine how that smelled! 2. You can purchase the largest model of a human heart for a small price of $5795.95 US dollars. Um huh, I said five thousand. It is 8 times the size of an anatomical heart at 100×90×70 cm. Wow, that is a lot of money! 3. The smallest person believed to ever have open heart surgery was just over 25 weeks gestation and about 1.4 lbs. This was back in 2002 and I think it to still be the smallest baby to have open heart. I searched and searched. If you know different, shoot me a hello. 4. Throughout your life your heart contracts about 70 times a minute and pumps about 5 liters of blood each minute. That is amaz... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1841165 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 23:54:54 +0100 1841165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1815397&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2F399900486%2Fthe-difference-a-day-makes.php Diabetes always has the knack for throwing me for a loop.  Things are going along normally; well, as normal as you can get when you have diabetes and are pregnant- when all of a sudden things just change.  For no... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1815397 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:39:46 +0100 1815397 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1812862&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FILqgjHOWBwQ%2F As we slide into fall and the skies get darker earlier, sweatshirts are on at the bus stop and the leaves are turning beautiful colors, I can’t help but think… winter will be here soon. When you really stop and think about it, aren’t you more active in the summer months than the winter months? I think I am with the pool, walks in the evenings and running with the kids all day long. So this little tidbit of information shouldn’t come as a huge surprise. A five-year study found people treated in the summer were on average 8% more likely to see their blood pressure come down to healthy levels. These same findings were reported from 15 VA hospitals across the US. Not only are blood pressure’s elevated in the winter months but the incidence of stroke and heart attacks are also... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1812862 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 16:22:42 +0100 1812862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1726501&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FlNz81D437NI%2F I received an email asking about a post I published a bit back about beet juice and hypertension. The reason that beet juice helps in lowering high blood pressure because they are high in dietary nitrate and increase the amount of nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide (NO) helps blood vessels relax, lowering blood pressure. Nitric oxide has anti-inflammatory activity and discourages blood clot formation. The research that supported this stated that two cups (500 ml) of beet juice lowered blood pressure by approximately 10 points and the effect lasts up to 24 hours. I hope that helps and good luck! Tags: beet juice, combating hypertension, Hearty Diet, high-blood-pressure, hypertension, nutritional supplimentShare This (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1726501 Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:38:43 +0100 1726501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696358&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FQ1g-e9YG7iY%2F As I was watching the ol’ boob tube, that means television to any not familiar with American slang, and I saw a commercial for a new combination medicine. Caduet. It is a mix of Norvasc and Lipitor. So it lowers your blood pressure while lowering your cholesterol. I wrote about this last year but have seen so much prescribed and advertised as of lately that I thought it needed to be re-visited! CADUET can be taken anytime, day or night, with or without food. CADUET offers every dose combination of Norvasc and Lipitor for flexible dosing options (excluding 1 combination: CADUET 2.5 mg/80 mg). CADUET is available on many managed care plans nationwide. It is like killing 2 birds with 1 stone.. And one of my first thoughts was that there would be only 1 co-pay inst... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1696358 Sat, 09 Aug 2008 17:24:01 +0100 1696358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696359&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F66O2sHN1RNc%2F Persons with heart disease need to worry with controlling their overall cholesterol levels and not just “bad” cholesterol levels.  So important that this is re-examined. High cholesterol and heart disease do not mix! Researchers found that 37 percent of Americans with diseases that affect the heart and vascular system had reached recommended levels of LDL-C (bad cholesterol), but only 17 percent were at recommended levels for all lipids – LDL-C, HDL-C (“good” cholesterol) and triglycerides. In contrast, 85 percent of those without cardiovascular diseases were at recommended LDL-C levels, while 67 percent were at recommended levels for all lipids.  What do we need to do to decrease our risk levels? Control your weight, blood pressure and blood lipid levels through good l... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1696359 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 16:53:19 +0100 1696359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1668595&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F350806582%2F My journal is short and sweet today. My blood sugars have been in the range of 83-96 post 2 hrs eating over the last week, even while on vacation. I am slowly regaining energy and feeling like myself so I have started riding the elliptical and weight training again. It is about time!! I am sore though- but that too shall pass. My weight is status quo. But at least I have yet to gain- I guess that is good. Hope your week has gone well and you have continued to make good choices! Tags: diabetes, exercise, food, heart-disease, Hearty Diet, high-blood-pressure, journal, nutritionShare This (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1668595 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 07:50:35 +0100 1668595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1603315&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F330829807%2F Here is a warning for all heart patients! One of the highest consumed fish in America is now being called fatty and could have dangerous implications for persons with heart disease, arthritis, asthma and other allergic and auto-immune diseases as it could cause an inflammatory response. …has very low levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and, perhaps worse, very high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, according to new research from Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Tilapia has higher levels of omega-6 fatty acids than 80% lean hamburger, cookies, bacon or sausage. Wow- this is really big news around my house as our favorite fish is Tilapia! My kids love it and so do I so we will have to revisit our choices at the seafood store. We buy it because we love the taste but appare... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1603315 Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:14:53 +0100 1603315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1536732&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F317577895%2F Consider this a personal reflection. When I ask a patient if their diabetes is controlled and they say yes… I do not expect to see a glucose of 298 when their bloodwork comes back. When I then go and ask them about their ‘controlled’ number I do not expect them to laugh and say it is usually ‘below 250′. Is that controlled? I just get so upset because I feel that people do not understand the repercussions of  their behavior. High blood sugars lead to so many difficulties and issues down the road. Tightened blood vessels, heart disease, neuropathies, amputations, PVD, kidney disease and sexual dysfunction. Need I say more. I know I am preaching to the choir here but I just had to vent a bit. What do you keep your sugar controlled at? What is your magic number?... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1536732 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 18:53:13 +0100 1536732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1538241&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F317736344%2F I saw a commercial for a new combination medicine. Caduet. It is a mix of Norvasc and Lipitor and I wrote about it last year when it first came on the scene. It lowers your blood pressure while lowering your cholesterol. I still have yet to really see this medication prescribed. Here are its benefits… CADUET can be taken anytime, day or night, with or without food. CADUET offers every dose combination of Norvasc and Lipitor for flexible dosing options (excluding 1 combination: CADUET 2.5 mg/80 mg). CADUET is available on many managed care plans nationwide. It is like killing 2 birds with 1 stone- with only one co-pay.  Have you tried it? Or do you know someone that has? How did they make out? I would love some feedback. via Caduet Official Site Tags: cadu... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1538241 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 16:54:08 +0100 1538241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1535718&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2008%2F06%2F21%2Fchuck-that-giant-handbag-for-lower-blood-pressure%2F Easy Health Tip of the Day: Give your massive handbag the ‘ol heave-ho to lower blood pressure. Why? Because wearing a heavy bag compresses the veins in your shoulders and increases your BP in as little as 10 minutes! So imagine the kind of damage you could be doing during an all-day shopping marathon. Aye Chihuahua! The fix? A lighter bag (duh) or one with a strap over two inches wide to help distribute the bag’s weight more evenly. A clutch or backpack would work, too. Image: eluxury.com Tags: High Blood Pressure, Large Handbags, Lower Blood PressureShare This (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1535718 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 15:54:47 +0100 1535718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1526287&cid=t_446833_122_f&fid=35055&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsarasotaneurology.com%2F2008%2F06%2F13%2Fmild-cognitive-impairment-mci-memory-loss-without-dementia%2F Many patients over the age of 65 complain of memory loss and are concerned they have dementia. Others attribute their memory loss to aging. While there is a very mild degree of memory loss associated with aging, it is usually not significant. For example, forgetting where you put your keys or where you parked your car. These are not serious memory problems. A more problematic degree of memory loss, while not dementia, is called Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). MCI is characterized by an increase level of forgetfulness. There are two primary types of MCI: (1) Amnestic MCI (2) Non-amnestic MCI. In patients affected with amnestic MCI, they have significant memory and recall difficulty. There is a stronger association with this type of MCI with Alzheimer’s disease. Non-amnestic MCI usual... Sarasota Neurology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1526287 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 11:49:58 +0100 1526287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1489347&cid=t_446833_107_f&fid=36585&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FHighlightHEALTH%2F%7E3%2F303432314%2F This article was published on Highlight HEALTH. Related articlesThe Best of Highlight HEALTH 2007 - The Year in ReviewGenomic Medicine: An Educational Resource from Helix HealthQuitWinLive - The Great American SmokeoutIrreversible Gene Expression Changes From SmokingSmoking Cessation Timeline: What Happens When You Quit (Source: Highlight HEALTH) Highlight HEALTH blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1489347 Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:15:53 +0100 1489347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1480836&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F301600070%2F With all of these newly pregnant celebrities as of late, Ashley Simpson, Angelina Jolie, Gwen Stefani and the lovely Jamie Lee Spears, I decided to remind everyone about the complications of the heart when pregnant. We all know that pregnancy brings extra fluid, ie. fat fingers and very swollen feet. The heart is also affected by the increase in fluid. When there is extra fluid floating through ones vascular system the heart has to work harder and beat faster. Extra weight and water retention—common during pregnancy—make the heart pump harder. A pregnant woman with heart disease should call the doctor immediately if she experiences any dizziness, discomfort, or pain. She should be sure to include adequate iron and folic acid in her diet and restrict her salt intake. T... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1480836 Fri, 30 May 2008 19:28:48 +0100 1480836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1467939&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F297992793%2F Here is some scary news for you… diabetics and high blood pressure. Doctors are not sure when to treat their patients even when posing and increased risk for advanced heart disease by being a diabetic. But a new study finds that even when people with diabetes show up in their doctor’s office with a high blood pressure reading, there’s only a 50-50 chance that each of them will get some sort of attention for it. That might mean a change to their medications, or a plan to follow up a few weeks later to see if the reading is still high. What happens to the other 50%. Does their pressure just get worse? Do they monitor their high blood pressure or just throw caution to the wind, without even know they are doing so? The national goal for people with diabetes is less than 130/... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1467939 Sun, 25 May 2008 22:44:49 +0100 1467939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1467927&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F297994593%2F A study based at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston provides added justification that a thiazide-type diuretic is the best first-choice drug for hypertensive patients. This is quite interesting as I was just debating this earlier in the day with a physician I work with. I think there are definite indications that prove to show how helpful a diuretic is in combating high blood pressure. These drugs are generally well tolerated and inexpensive for the patient. And the medications have a duel purpose, fluid as well as lowering ones pressure. via Science Daily Tags: bumex, diuretics, hctz, high-blood-pressure, lasix, thiazidesShare This (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1467927 Sun, 25 May 2008 19:51:57 +0100 1467927 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1467928&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F297988694%2F Here is some scary news for you… diabetics and high blood pressure. Doctors are not sure when to treat their patients even when posing and increased risk for advanced heart disease by being a diabetic. But a new study finds that even when people with diabetes show up in their doctor’s office with a high blood pressure reading, there’s only a 50-50 chance that each of them will get some sort of attention for it. That might mean a change to their medications, or a plan to follow up a few weeks later to see if the reading is still high. What happens to the other 50%. Does their pressure just get worse? Do they monitor their high blood pressure or just throw caution to the wind, without even know they are doing so? The national goal for people with diabetes is less than 130/... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1467928 Sun, 25 May 2008 17:37:12 +0100 1467928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1442802&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2008%2F05%2F13%2Fblood-pressure-problems-put-down-that-energy-drink%2F Image details: Arm with blood pressure cuff ‘ Color served by picapp.com Love the buzz of a Red Bull or Rock Star? If you have high blood pressure, you may want to fall out of love…quickly! A study by Wayne State University in Michigan which was recently presented at the American Heart Association found that the blood pressure and heart rates of healthy adults increased after they downed 2 cans of energy drinks a day. Most of these drinks, of course, are packed to the gills with caffeine and taurine, an amino acid which can adversely affect the heart. The important thing to note about this study is that it was done with healthy adults. And though the study subjects did not see dangerous levels of bp and heart rate increases, the increase that was seen could potentially be enou... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1442802 Wed, 14 May 2008 02:17:23 +0100 1442802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2510313&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=35057&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.orlandosentinel.com%2F%7Er%2Ffeatures%2Fhealthblog%2F%7E3%2FOTtARs3f_Ps%2Fmeditate-to-low.html Another study has found heart benefits from twice-daily meditation. This one came out last week in the American Journal of Hypertension. The findings: A specific type of meditation - TM - reduced systolic blood pressure by about 4.7 points and... (Source: Health Check the Blog) Health Check the Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2510313 Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:00:00 +0100 2510313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1352198&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F264290952%2F In the first study that followed children through their developmental years into their teens, more proof that we need to educate our youth on good nutrition, exercise and risk factors associated with heart disease. Young children who lead inactive lifestyles are five-to-six times more likely to be at serious risk of heart disease, with that degree of danger emerging as early as their teenage years, according to a new study by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It is so important to get our kids out there and off the couch. Let them pick a sport, any sport and go for it. Walk after dinner as a family, explain the food pyramid, you might be surprised at what they will be interested in. We have to do all we can to help our children- they are our future! via Scien... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1352198 Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:23:09 +0100 1352198 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1347319&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2008%2F4%2F3%2Fpot-bellies-of-the-worldbeware.html By Dov Michaeli MD, Ph.D So you don’t exercise. And you like your six pack. And you have a bit of a pot belly. But you are not overweight. In fact, your BMI is in the normal range. Do you feel pretty smug? Read on, and I think you’ll get shaken up a bit, as you should. Central Obesity The correlation between obesity and diabetes and heart disease is well known. In fact, we now know that people should be concerned not only about body fat, but importantly: where this fat is located. Waistline fat is a major risk factor of diabetes and heart disease, deceptively cute names like “love handles” not withstanding. But did you know that being a Michelin Man may end up in dementia? The Kaiser study I certainly did not suspect it. And I dare say,I don’t know anybod... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1347319 Thu, 03 Apr 2008 03:57:44 +0100 1347319 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1340662&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F261516347%2Flotrel_hypertension_drug_provi.html Novartis’ new hypertension drug Lotrel proved to be so effective that a clinical trial was stopped early. The medication which combines two blood pressure medications is targeted to prevent heart attacks and strokes.The trial compared two high blood pressure pills to see if a combination of pills could help patients get better control of their blood pressure. Both pills worked but those taking the Lotrel, which is a pill that combines an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE inhibitor) and a calcium channel blocker, had 20% fewer heart attacks and strokes than those who took an ACE inhibitor and diuretic combination.For the 73 million patients in America with high blood pressure, we offer a new option to reduce heart attacks, strokes and heart-related death by 20 percent,&quot... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1340662 Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:00:41 +0100 1340662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1327634&cid=t_446833_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2Fstroke-and-hypertension-live-news-feeds.html Stroke and Hypertension live news feeds from Medical News Today have been added to The Caregivers Beacon blog. A stroke, or smaller mini-strokes, can cause vascular dementia, and hypertension is a risk factor for stroke. The news feeds are located on the left side of the blog in a list near the top, starting with the Alzheimers and Dementia news feeds. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1327634 Wed, 26 Mar 2008 08:55:00 +0100 1327634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1312522&cid=t_446833_158_f&fid=36024&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fcaregiver%2Fjeff%2Fpops-and-paperwork%2F I don’t know when the last time Pops filed a tax return was – a dozen years ago or longer, but now he says he wants to file one for 2007 to get the $300 payment from the federal government under the recent stimulus package. The only problem is Pops didn’t keep any of his 1099 income statements when they came in the mail. In addition to Social Security, he receives small pensions from his old carpenter’s union and from the state from when he was superintendent of buildings and grounds for a local school system. He needs these forms to file his taxes. Pops blames the cleaning lady for losing his income statements, but this is an old excuse he has used when he loses stuff that comes in the mail (before it was the cleaning lady it was my mother losing stuff). The fact is he is not a �... Caregiver Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1312522 Tue, 18 Mar 2008 22:41:16 +0100 1312522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1298828&cid=t_446833_158_f&fid=36024&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fcaregiver%2Fjeff%2Fcaregivers-need-to-see-the-doctor-too%2F If you are a reader of this blog you may remember my New Year’s resolution to get myself a medical checkup in 2008 . It had been quite a few years since my last, and I am getting to the age when anyone’s health begins to fray a bit around the edges. I already know I have asthma (pretty well controlled) and sinusitis that causes my nasal passages and ears to clog up from time to time. I also suspected my cholesterol was high—it always has been—but then everybody’s is high, including my 90-year-old father’s. Other than that, I have been feeling pretty good, and I didn’t expect any surprises. I saw Dr. H a couple weeks back and got the usual kneading, probing, blood tests, traces and scans. Not surprisingly, I had all the maladies I knew I had, but then I learned I had some othe... Caregiver Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1298828 Wed, 12 Mar 2008 21:23:59 +0100 1298828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1286276&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F247564172%2Fhigh_blood_pressure_vaccine_un.html A new study suggests that a vaccine that blocks angiotensin II receptors could eventually replace hypertension medications. Blocking the angiotensin II receptors results in relaxing the blood vessels and thus reduces blood pressure. The benefit of this type of vaccine is that patients would only have to receive treatment two or three times a year and would eliminate the need for daily medication. (Source: PharmaGazette) PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1286276 Fri, 07 Mar 2008 17:00:42 +0100 1286276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1187113&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2008%2F1%2F30%2Fin-praise-of-the-old-fashioned-diuretics-are-still-the-best.html By Dov Michaeli MD, Ph.DWhen I was a (relatively) young resident training in Internal Medicine we, the hot shot residents in an elite medical school, used to indulgingly sneer at our attending physicians when they would recommend some passé treatment, like the quaint diuretics ( for heaven’s sake!) for hypertension. Haven’t they heard of ACE inhibitors, or calcium channel inhibitors, or at the very least an old fashioned beta blocker? In fact, today’s hypertensives, especially those who also have the metabolic syndrome, are a walking pharmacopea-they take all of the above. Now, I am not arguing here that the other drug groups should not be used in the management of hypertension, especially the ones refractive to diuretics. But a study in the latest Archive of Inter... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1187113 Wed, 30 Jan 2008 02:00:04 +0100 1187113 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1149947&cid=t_446833_107_f&fid=36585&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FHighlightHealth%2F%7E3%2F216490516%2F This article was published on Highlight HEALTH. (Source: Highlight HEALTH) Highlight HEALTH blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1149947 Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:34:25 +0100 1149947 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1146650&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F215728459%2F Watch out Australia! This is not earth shattering news but it does go to show just how prevalent diabetes is around the world. The University of Queensland School of Population Health is predicting and explosion of type 2 diabetes across Australia. And I mean explosion… like more than double by the year 2023. Wow!! The researchers studied 14 key risk factors that that make up what they coin DALY, disability adjusted life year. What key factors attributed the most to the prediction associated with type 2 diabetes? Tobacco use, high blood pressure, high body mass, physical inactivity and alcohol consumption. But there is good news in all of this. If you look at the factors above, they are all controllable. “All of the health risks are open to modification through intervention&#8... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1146650 Sat, 12 Jan 2008 17:11:07 +0100 1146650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1128841&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F210628376%2F How many times before have I mentioned the importance of sleep and your bodies ability to regulate glucose? A few at least. There is yet further proof to this theory and I have been holding off writing about it due to it being somewhat repetitive, but I have seen it so frequently that I think it is worth another mention. The US team discovered that volunteers who were roused whenever they were about to fall into the deepest sleep developed insulin resistance. This inability of the body to recognize normal insulin signals leads to high blood sugar levels, weight gain and, eventually, even type 2 diabetes. Personally, I have been in trouble from the start. My kids are such horrible sleepers and my hubby and I have not slept through the night in 7 years. Not to mention that a pin drop wakes ... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1128841 Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:33:21 +0100 1128841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1124263&cid=t_446833_140_f&fid=35436&url=http%3A%2F%2Fseroxatsecrets.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F01%2F01%2Fmore-on-paxil-withdrawal-addiction-and-alcohol-craving%2F Do you know what really amazes me?… I’ll tell you then. It is the fact that Glaxo continues to say there is nothing wrong with Paxil (Seroxat) – and that if you do suffer from withdrawal then the “discontinuation symptoms” that can occur in some people will be “generally short lived” and “mild to moderate in intensity”. Glaxo says “We take the reporting of adverse effects very seriously, as we do with all our medications. Fortunately, with Seroxat, we have a wealth of positive experience involving thousands of physicians and millions of patients - over ten years of experience worldwide.” Then why can Glaxo continue to IGNORE the tens of thousands of reports of “negative experience” – such as adverse drug reactions ... seroxat secrets... blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1124263 Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:06:59 +0100 1124263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1103485&cid=t_446833_140_f&fid=35436&url=http%3A%2F%2Fseroxatsecrets.wordpress.com%2F2007%2F12%2F18%2Fdont-just-take-my-word-for-it-have-a-look-at-medicationscom%2F An interesting web site - medications.com This registry is a place to share positive or negative side effects of using Paxil. If you directly experienced a side effect while using Paxil, then we encourage you to enter it here. Please note that entries here are the experiences of individual users, and in no way means that you or anyone else will experience the same side effect, since the same medication affects people in different ways. Please always contact your physician. Have a look at the 150 entries for Paxil side effects here. I wonder which are real and which might have written by employees of Glaxo… who knows? “I had always been a teetotaller purely because I didn’t enjoy alcohol and hated losing control. At the grand old age of 44 I was prescribed Seroxat and sud... seroxat secrets... blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1103485 Tue, 18 Dec 2007 22:36:08 +0100 1103485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1106260&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F202829656%2Ftiming_of_hypertension_medication_may_matter.html Dr. Roberto Minutolo of the Second University of Naples reports in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases that switching one hypertension pill from morning to bedtime may normalize blood pressure in patients at higher right of heart and kidney disease.In healthy people, blood pressure dips at night by 10 to 20 percent. Though scientists are unsure why this occurs, they suspect the decrease gives arteries the opportunity to rest. Those with hypertension that don't dip at night tend to develop more serious heart disease and are at higher risk for kidney disease.The Italian study consisted of 32 patients with chronic kidney disease taking more than one hypertension medication a day. All were monitored for 24 hours and were found to have blood pressure that did not dip at night. The patie... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1106260 Tue, 18 Dec 2007 17:00:18 +0100 1106260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1100233&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F201801601%2F Fa-la-la-la-la…la-la-la-la……. The holidays are here and with them comes stress, anxiety and overall worry. Did I get all the shopping done? Have I finished the cookies? Did I send the cards out yet? “I forgot my cousin twice removed from my step fathers side of the family- he needs a gift!!!!!!!” Yup- that pretty much sums it up-the holidays blow in and out like a flash of light. It is hard sometimes to stop and think about what the true meaning is and to not get caught up in the hub bub! And what 2 days of the year do you think have the highest incidences of heart attacks and heart related deaths? I’m sure you guessed it… The two riskiest days of the year for heart-related deaths Dec.25 and Jan. 1. Christmas and New Year’s, it appears, can l... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1100233 Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:29:59 +0100 1100233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1096720&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F200603597%2F I’m not gonna lie to ya! I’ve got nothing tonight. I have been searching and searching for news worthy, exciting, groundbreaking information or research and have yet to find anything so I will share a little something that I have been observing a lot of lately. High blood pressure among our children… Working in an urgent care facility, I see every single age group and demographic every single time I work. But I am getting very bothered by the number of children whose blood pressure is alarmingly high! I mean like 152/96 and 146/94. That is no joke high!! What will happen to these children if there are no changes made? And I know that this is not very clinical and exactly factual, but most of these kids are overweight. Before you write a comment saying that I shouldn&#8217... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1096720 Sat, 15 Dec 2007 03:37:28 +0100 1096720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1091307&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F12%2F13%2Fat-last-an-explanation-how-stress-causes-obesity.html By Dov Michaeli MD, Ph.DIt is a well-known phenomenon: people under stress hit the fridge, and gorge on candy and fatty food. A gallon of ice scream in one sitting is not unheard of. But people who think deeply about such things asked themselves: why don’t they (people under stress) gorge on veggies? And what is the nature of the connection between stress and obesity? Is it simply overeating equalsobesity, or is there a deeper connection, involving the brain? After all, stress is a mind thing.The physiology of acute stress Almost every physiological action in our body is controlled by two systems: the autonomic nervous system, and the endocrine system. The autonomic nervous system has this name because it is, well, autonomic: it marches to its own drum, if you will, independently of ... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1091307 Thu, 13 Dec 2007 03:21:24 +0100 1091307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1067792&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F194600524%2Fdiovan_gets_fda_approval_for_t.html The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Diovan (valsartan) for use on children between the ages of six and sixteen following a priority review. Diovan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). The drug has already been previously approved for use by adults suffering from high blood pressure.It is believe that nearly 5% of children and adolescents suffer from high blood pressure. Novartis Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Diovan, claims that studies showed no difference in adverse affects on children than were previously reported for adults. Those side effects can include: headache and dizziness or more seriously hypotension and kidney problems."Novartis believes it is important to provide physicians with treatment options such as Diovan which are effective in treati... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1067792 Mon, 03 Dec 2007 20:00:38 +0100 1067792 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1012468&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F181195890%2F America’s tweens more than doubled their use of type-2 diabetes medications between 2002 and 2005, with girls between 10 and 14 years of age showing a 166 percent increase. The likely cause: Obesity, which is closely associated with Type 2 diabetes. This is so darn scary! Oh, we have to do something now about this epidemic in our children. Please, I beg you to teach your kids about nutrition and the risks of heart disease and diabetes as well as the complications that go along with them. My kids eat happy Meals just like every other kid but they also understand the importance of fruits, veggies and exercise! Not that they always conform to my wishes but I think of it as laying the groundwork if you will. You know? What do you do to teach your children about the importance of a health... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1012468 Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:57:23 +0100 1012468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1009447&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F180716536%2Fhigh_blood_pressure_pills_mayb.html Early research by Cytos Biotechnology AG's of its vaccine to control high blood pressure is showing promise. Scientists are hoping that the vaccine could one day replace the daily medication people with hypertension are required to take. Yahoo News is reporting:Researchers led by Dr. Juerg Nussberger of the University Hospital of the Canton of Vaud are exploring an approach that would involve periodic vaccinations rather than daily pills. A small study presented at a meeting of the American Heart Association showed that the vaccine reduced blood pressure in people with mild to moderate hypertension.In the study, 65 men and seven women with high blood pressure were injected with either a lower or higher dose of the vaccine or with a placebo. Average age was 51.Those who got th... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1009447 Tue, 06 Nov 2007 19:30:20 +0100 1009447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=989743&cid=t_446833_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F177084702%2F These days it seems that more children have autism and that we hear a lot more about autism: Why? When people try to account for the dramatic rise in the prevalence of autism in the past few years—in the 1960s, autism was considered a rare disorder that occurred in only about 3 in every 10,000 children; the prevalence rate for autism is now 1 in 150 among children in the United States (and 1 in 94 in New Jersey, where I live)—they often turn to external factors. In the 1960s, parents themselves, and mothers in particular, were blamed. During the time in which both awareness of autism and the numbers of children diagnosed with it increased greatly—even to the extent that some have proclaimed that there is an “epidemic of autism”—many factors have been tag... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=989743 Tue, 30 Oct 2007 13:23:07 +0100 989743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=989952&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F177146833%2F We’re talking about cholesterol and high blood pressure meds used by people between the ages of 20 and 44 years old. For cholesterol meds, the rate rose from 2.5 percent in 2001 to slightly more than 4 percent in 2006, which translated into a 68 percent jump. And for blood pressure drugs, the rate rose to 8 percent, a 21 percent increase, according to a new analysis by Medco Health Solutions, the big pharmacy benefits manager. And the usage appears to be growing at a faster pace than among older Americans. Why? Well, experts point to higher rates of obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol problems among young people, the Associated Press reports. Also, docs are getting more aggressive with preventive treatments. “This is good news, that more people in this age range a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=989952 Tue, 30 Oct 2007 12:07:05 +0100 989952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=970106&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F173402969%2Ffda_to_consider_tightening_reg.html November 29, 2007 the U.S Food and Drug Administration meeting will consider a request for the agency to strengthen regulations and labeling for salt.The Center for Science in the Public Interest has asked the FDA to consider regulating the amount of salt that is put into processed foods and to require additional health information on the labels of food containing salt.Reducing or eliminating salt intake is one of the suggested way to help reduce high blood pressure, a condition suffered by one in three Americans, so being able to correctly tell that sodium content of food is paramount. Forcing limits on salt content would also help in controlling something that has become a national epidemic.If you've never tried to shop for someone that needs to control their salt intake, you should ... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=970106 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:30:02 +0100 970106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=968377&cid=t_446833_122_f&fid=35055&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsarasotaneurology.com%2F2007%2F10%2F22%2Fstroke-prevention-a-better-way-of-stroke-treatment%2F The objective is to have a total cholesterol less than 180, good cholesterol (HDL) of greater than 50 and bad cholesterol (LDL) less than 100. A recent study published in the journal Stroke reported that discontinuing statin therapy in the year after a stroke is associated with a significant increase in the risk for death, even in the absence of heart disease. Medications are not the only treatment for stroke prevention. Smoking is associated with a 2-3 times greater risk of stroke and bleeding in the brain. Smoking also contributes to the accelerated development of heart disease, emphysema and peripheral artery disease. Chantix is a new medication that received FDA approval to help stop smoking. Exercise is important in maintaining overall body conditioning and weight control. This in tur... Sarasota Neurology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=968377 Mon, 22 Oct 2007 11:15:34 +0100 968377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=964662&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F172313114%2F So, I am posing a question to you. You know how garlic is supposed to help with high blood pressure and aid in the fight against heart disease? And you know how there is research every single day that examines the same ol’ same old? Yes, this is true of the garlic myth as well. Eating garlic is one of the best ways to lower high blood pressure and protect yourself from cardiovascular disease. A new study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) shows this protective effect is closely linked to how much hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is produced from garlic compounds interacting with red blood cells I hear everybody loud and clear and love me some stinky garlic but… is it whole garlic, fresh garlic, minced garlic, garlic powder or does it matter if the garlic is heated to a c... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=964662 Sat, 20 Oct 2007 00:31:06 +0100 964662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=961763&cid=t_446833_152_f&fid=36428&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcrankyfitness.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fgarlic-stinky-but-stupendous.html Garlic is already known as a potent cancer-fighter, but apparently it's also great for lowering blood pressure and relaxing the arteries. At least that's according to this garlic study just out of the University of Alabama at Birmingham.The scientists say it all has something to do with hydrogen sulfide interacting with red blood cells and relaxing your arteries--or well, at least that seems to be the case if you're a rat. But, as the article points out, hydrogen sulfide is "is a toxic, flammable gas responsible for the smell of rotten eggs."Thus the problem. (Not the toxic flammable part--Crabby isn't worried about consuming so much garlic she bursts into toxic flames). She means the smell.Does anyone else deal with the following household dilemma? Suggestions would be most welcome.The Cr... Cranky Fitness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=961763 Wed, 17 Oct 2007 13:34:00 +0100 961763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=945310&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F10%2F12%2Fstress-the-silent-killer.html Conclusion On the biological level, this is yet another demonstration of the mind-body relationship. In fact, a whole field of research called psychoneuroimmunology (I know, it’s a mouthful, but if you break it up to its component words, psycho-neuro-immunology, it makes sense) is thriving and is uncovering new connections between brain, mind and immune response on an almost daily basis. On the clinical level, the strengthening evidence of the effect of stress on health and disease suggests new modalities and approaches to treatment. What is most intriguing and potentially far-reaching, are the societal consequences. Now that we accrue more and more evidence on the effects of stress on health, it would make economic sense to pay attention to the work environment. An enlightened manag... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=945310 Fri, 12 Oct 2007 05:29:39 +0100 945310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=918019&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F163842137%2Fsmall_study_shows_promise_for.html A small study of 10 people by The Hull York Medical School found that patients had less fatigue when eating dark chocolate with a high cocoa content.Researchers were surprised but believe that it is possible that dark chocolate may have an effect on the brain chemical serotonin.Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a condition with a variety of symptoms but the most common is chronic fatigue.Study leader Professor Steve Atkin, an expert in endocrinology, said "Dark chocolate is high in polyphenols, which have been associated with health benefits such as a reduction in blood pressure. Also high polyphenols appear to improve levels of serotonin in the brain, which has been linked with chronic fatigue syndrome and that may be a mechanism." More research is needed to confirm the res... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=918019 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:38:52 +0100 918019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=908617&cid=t_446833_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F162097534%2Fdaiichi_sankyo_inc_gets_fda_ap.html Daiichi Sankyo Co. (TYO:4568) announced today that it has received FDA approval for AZOR.AZOR, amlodipine and olmesartan medoxomil, is used in the treatment of hypertension also referred to as high blood pressure. A once daily pill that is a combination of calcium channel blocker and angiotensin receptor blocker."AZOR with its established efficacy and favorable side effect profile provides twocomplementary mechanisms of action to lower blood pressure. It will givephysicians a new treatment option for patients whose blood pressure remainstoo high on currently prescribed medications" stated Michael A. Weber, MD, Professor of Medicine, State University of New York, Downstate College of Medicine.Hypertension is estimated to affect as many as one in three Americans. It is estimated th... PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=908617 Thu, 27 Sep 2007 18:30:17 +0100 908617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=904503&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F9%2F26%2Fsloppy-blood-pressure-monitoring.html By Pat Salber, MDThere is a simple, but interesting blood pressure study in the August issue of Diabetes Care (vol 30, no 8, 8/2007). Esther Kim, MD, MPH and her associates took a look at how accurate blood pressure readings were in 16 academically affiliated clinics. The results could definitely be better.Blood pressure measurement is one of the first clinical skills you learn in medical school, although, once in practice, doctors hardly ever perform the test. Nurses, medical technicians and other medical folks usually do it. On the surface, the test seems easy to perform, you put the blood pressure cuff on someone’s arm, a stethoscope over the artery just below it, and you listen for certain sounds. The test is so simple that high quality digital blood pressure instruments are sold... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=904503 Wed, 26 Sep 2007 02:29:15 +0100 904503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=869525&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F09%2F13%2Fgetting-up-early-is-bad-for-your-heart%2F Filed under: PreventionAs a general rule getting up early is thought to be a healthy habit, but new research says that may not necessarily be the case -- at least not when it comes to your heart anyway. A recent study that followed over 3,000 adults ranging in age from 23 to 90 yrs old found that those who got up early had a higher risk for cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure and stroke. It's important to realize also, though, that early risers are generally older, so it's possible that also has something to do with the increase in cardiovascular problems. Also, sleep deprivation is a proven heart risk factor, and obviously getting up early often means not getting enough sleep.So the key may be that early to rise is fine, as long as it's early to bed also?Read | Pe... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=869525 Thu, 13 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 869525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=841830&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F152466984%2F Do you want to hear something scary? On average, doctors spot only 1 in 4 children that have high blood pressure. I would say that is a reason for concern. And when you do the math, that would mean that there are over 1.5 million kids that are “living” with undiagnosed hypertension. What is the reason behind this very, very frightening little statistic… One of the biggest reasons that hypertension is missed in children is that normal blood pressure values change based on a child’s age, gender and height. So, while 120/80 mm/Hg is a normal reading for an adult and for some older children, that same reading could indicate high blood pressure in a younger, shorter child. So my suggestion is to be that pushy parent. Yes, take it from a nurse mommy of 3 that has had her... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=841830 Wed, 05 Sep 2007 11:25:11 +0100 841830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=828079&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2007%2F08%2F28%2Felevated-pregnancy-blood-sugars-linked-to-childs-obesity%2F Filed under: Type 2, Adult Onset, Diet, Lifestyle, Research, Exercise, Daily News, Support, CareA new study by Kaiser Permanente's Center for Health Research carries both good news and bad news. Bad news first -- research of 9,439 mother-child pairs shows maternal blood sugar is tied to a future risk of obesity in offpsring. Pregnant women with above-normal blood sugar levels were twice as likely to have overweight kids. Across all racial and ethnic groups, the higher the mother's blood sugar during pregnancy, the greater the chance her offspring would develop obesity by 5 to 7 years of age. Now if you're pregnant and you've been diagnosed with high blood sugar, take a deep breath. The good news is the risk of childhood obesity is reversible if elevated sugars are treated through diet, ex... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=828079 Tue, 28 Aug 2007 04:00:00 +0100 828079 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=828369&cid=t_446833_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F149007708%2F Obesity rates in the US continue to go up, up, up! And we all know what that means. So will all the medical conditions and diseases that accompany obesity. High blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes to name a few. So, what states topped the list? By the way, this is not the list to be bragging about! Anyway, Mississippi has won the gold on this one. They are now considered the most obese state in the US with over 30% of persons meeting the criteria. Alabama and West Virginia took second and third place. Colorado is the leanest state with only 17%. Childhood obesity was also measured and District of Columbia weighed in with over 20% of their children overweight. The leanest children in the US can be found in Utah. If you care to read more about how childhood obesity can prove to be fat... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=828369 Mon, 27 Aug 2007 19:33:13 +0100 828369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=811938&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=35216&url=http%3A%2F%2Forsaaetas.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F08%2Frollercoasters.html Some rollercoasters are a ton of fun like this one, Superman--the ride of steel--at Six Flags New England. That's where I was on Saturday; although not on Superman, since it is/was closed for whatever reason (major bummer!). However, there's also the blood sugar rollercoaster that I was riding and NOT at all enjoying!!The day started out fine. I entered the park at a cool in range number that is so typical that I didn't commit it to memory. Fast forward four hours or so. A little bit after lunch; blood sugar: 173. I corrected and added an additional 1 and a half units to cover 2 hrs of bolus. This was an unscientific whim that I took to prevent a high while spending 2 hours at the waterpark. Did it work?Negative. Blood sugar post waterpark: 275. 1 hour after correction: 274The rest of the ... orsa aetas blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=811938 Tue, 21 Aug 2007 01:52:00 +0100 811938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=782962&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F08%2F06%2Fallegra-and-high-blood-pressure-a-connection%2F Filed under: Drugs, Daily news, Women Heart Health, Men Heart HealthFor someone with Allergies, Allegra can be a life-saver. But for someone who takes it, it can also be a life-ender, particularly with the use of Allegra-D, which contains a decongestant. The decongestant in Allegra, pseudoephedrine, works by restricting blood vessels, which can be a serious problem for people with high blood pressure because it raises it. And having habitually high blood pressure can lead to other problems, including stroke, kidney failure congestive heart failure, heart attack and more. If you suffer from allergies and high blood pressure, please talk to your doctor about alternative therapies for both problems.Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Co... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=782962 Mon, 06 Aug 2007 04:00:00 +0100 782962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=780641&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F8%2F5%2Fthe-cardiometabolic-syndrome-a-complex-metabolic-web-that-re.html by Bill Besterman The underpinning for much of the death and disability from arterial vascular disease in this country is the metabolic syndrome. One of the real authorities on the metabolic syndrome is a Dr. Ralph DeFronzo.  I particularly like his description of of this collection of disorders as a “complex metabolic web.”  The patients who have this diagnosis are burdened with multiple chronic conditions: hypertension, high bad or LDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, low HDL or good cholesterol, and high blood sugar ultimately resulting in type 2 diabetes. These patients routinely have vascular systems where the vessels are inflamed and the blood more likely to clot. Early in the condition the arteries are thicker and less distensible than in people witho... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=780641 Sun, 05 Aug 2007 20:24:06 +0100 780641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=774149&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F08%2F02%2Fnatural-remedies-for-high-blood-pressure%2F Filed under: Diet, Smoking, Alternative therapies, Mind Body medicine, StressHypertension is common today, and nearly 1/3 of adults suffering from the condition. Though medication can help to bring your blood pressure back in line, according to Dr. Andrew Weil, there are other natural methods you can try as well that may eventually allow you to reduce or stop your medication altogether (under the supervision of your doctor, of course). Some of his suggestions include: losing 10% of your total weight limiting caffeine and alcohol eliminating cigarettes reducing salt and processed foods Dr. Weil also believes that relaxation techniques, including yoga and breathing exercises, can help calm the involuntary nervous system. Read more about relaxation techniques for controlling blood p... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=774149 Thu, 02 Aug 2007 04:00:00 +0100 774149 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=745643&cid=t_446833_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F135606691%2F More problems for Novartis. A new study says that combining Diovan and Tekturna, the blood-pressure combo, helps lower blood pressure more than using either drug alone. But an editorial in the same journal, The Lancet, say the combo could have life-threatening side effect of high blood potassium, Dow Jones reports. And this makes it unlikely the treatment will make it into general practice or even for primary prevention in specialist care. (You can see the study summar here). Novartis disputed these findings, citing in a press release comments made by the study’s lead investigator, Suzanne Oparil. In our study, this combination was clearly shown by the data to be no more likely to increase potassium to unhealthy levels than either drug alone or even placebo,” says Oparil, profe... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=745643 Fri, 20 Jul 2007 11:58:02 +0100 745643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=736288&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F07%2F16%2Fare-you-doing-enough-to-lower-your-high-blood-pressure%2F Filed under: Diet, Prevention, ExerciseA recent telephone survey of over 100,000 adults found that most Americans with high blood pressure aren't doing everything they can to control it. When asked if they were: changing their eating habits cutting down on salt reducing use of alcohol exercising taking prescribed medication to reduce their high blood pressure, most participants answered yes to at least one of those. However, 1/3 hadn't improved their diet or increased their activitiy levels, while 20% reported they hadn't cut back on salt or alcohol. About 1/4 of respondents weren't taking medication for their condition.The CDC estimates that nearly 70% of people with hypertension don't have their disease under good control. That's a huge number. If you're concerned about your ... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=736288 Mon, 16 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 736288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=733649&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F07%2F13%2Fthe-link-between-high-blood-pressure-and-weight%2F Filed under: Diet, Prevention, ResearchA recent study published in the Epidemiology Journal questions the idea that BMI and blood pressure are tied together. The study -- which was done on the island nation of Seychelles -- found that as the number of people with a BMI over 25 rose, the association between BMI and hypertension decreased. The study likely raises more questions than it answers. How good of a measurement is BMI and how much of a role does obesity play in the development of high blood pressure? We know that those who are overweight are at a higher risk of developing the condition, but what other factors -- such as stress, smoking, environment, nutrition, etc. -- come into play? It will be interesting to see where this finding leads.Read | Permalink | Email ... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=733649 Fri, 13 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 733649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=733635&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2007%2F07%2F13%2Fbeta-blocker-wont-cause-weight-gain%2F Filed under: Type 2, Drugs, Research, Daily NewsThe beta-blocker carvedilol does not cause weight gain in diabetic patients, declares a new study just out. Significance? It means the drug does away with a problematic side-effect of other (earlier) beta-blockers, which are medications prescribed to correct high blood pressure. The study has been published in the American Journal of Medicine (July 2007) and was conducted by researchers at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York.Around eleven hundred patients participated in the study, all of whom have Type 2 diabetes and also suffer from high blood pressure. Some took the new drug carvedilol, while others were given the standard metoprolol. Over the course of five months the patients on metoprolol gained an average of 1.19 kg/2.6 lb... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=733635 Fri, 13 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 733635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=726222&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F7%2F11%2Fwhat-medicine-can-learn-from-the-progress-in-military-strate.html By William Bestermann MDMany professionals in positions of leadership today were educated in the 60s, opposed the Vietnam War, and viewed military intelligence as an oxymoron. But my oldest son, a West Point graduate, has taught me lessons that have changed my life and are relevant to the major conundrum facing medical practice today.West Point places a primary stress on technical adaptation.  These young cadets are taught “Tactics Lag Technology.”  That is to say if the officer applies tactics appropriate to the last war in the face of more deadly weaponry in the current war, he will likely be responsible for the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of his personal friends, team mates, and countrymen.  Military officers, in their movement upward in rank and respo... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=726222 Wed, 11 Jul 2007 01:43:43 +0100 726222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=720034&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2007%2F07%2F08%2Fhigh-blood-sugars-increase-risk-for-dehydration-drink-up%2F Filed under: Type 1, Type 2, Childhood, Adult Onset, DietSince running out of bottled water a week ago, I've been drinking less fluids throughout the day. Those 16 ounce bottles of water are my salvation when it comes to staying hydrated all summer. The plastic is not pro-environment, but our tap water isn't the best, so we often opt for bottled water. The risk of dehydration is higher for diabetics, and even greater when running high blood sugars on a hot summer day. High glucose levels trigger the body to draw extra water from the cells to flush out the glucose, which is then excreted in urine. This process requires the body to use its stored fluid. High blood sugars combined with sweating and inadequate fluid intake can quickly lead to dehydration or even severe hydration (dangerous). A... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=720034 Sun, 08 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 720034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=714015&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F07%2F04%2Fa-vaccine-for-high-blood-pressure%2F Filed under: Prevention, Research, DrugsThough when we think of vaccines, we often think of kids, there are all sorts of vaccines for adults -- tetanus, influenza, pneumonia, and...blood pressure? Maybe someday! Switzerland based bio-tech firm Cytos Biotechnology says they've developed a blood pressure vaccine that once administered, lasts for months at a time. The drug works by tricking the body into creating antibodies that help to reduce blood pressure, and in trials the medication appeared to be beneficial. More research needs to be done to find out if the drug is effective enough for high blood pressure patients. If it's found to be safe and useful, it may end daily pill popping for those who suffer from hypertension -- though they would still have to get a shot every 6 months.Read&nb... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=714015 Wed, 04 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 714015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=703056&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F6%2F28%2Fwhen-it-comes-to-diabetes-drugs-what-matters-is-event-reduct.html by Bill Bestermann, MDThe medication rosiglitazone or Avandia has been the subject of a great deal of controversy in recent months and there have been a couple of entries here on this topic :  Truth and consequences:  The sad tale of Avandia, GSK, the FDA, and medical research, Avandia, GlaxoSmithKline and bullying; or, how did we get into this mess? , and Avandia, the FDA, and the assault on scienceDr. Stephen Nissen and John Buse have been the objects of personal attacks described here at TDWI. The discussion does bring up a larger issue that often becomes blurred in the complexity of caring for patients.Virtually everything that happens to a diabetic patient is vascular. Most people understand that the heart attacks, strokes and amputations are re... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=703056 Thu, 28 Jun 2007 22:05:48 +0100 703056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=696942&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=35137&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdiabetesupdate.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F06%2Fstudy-really-proves-byetta-sucks-for.html If you read title, this study sounds like it proved that Byetta is great for people with Type 2 diabetes--and that's how the press is playing it. BYETTA(R) Study Showed Sustained Blood Glucose Control Over Three Years in People with Type 2 DiabetesBut read further and you'll see how sad the results of this study really were.Byetta Produced Dangerous Blood Sugar Levels in 70% of those taking it. The press release brags: "After three years of BYETTA treatment, 46 percent of study participants achieved the American Diabetes Association's recommended target A1C of 7 percent and 30 percentof participants achieved an A1C of 6.5 percent." [emphasis mine]This means that fully 7 out of 10 of those taking Byetta had blood sugars high enough to damage their organs for the full 3 years of the study.Th... Diabetes Update blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=696942 Tue, 26 Jun 2007 15:12:00 +0100 696942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=686989&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2007%2F06%2F21%2Fthe-left-and-the-right-sugar-readings%2F Filed under: Type 1, Type 2, Childhood, Adult Onset, Lifestyle, Opinion, SupportLast night I had my usual for dinner: chick peas and a red pepper. Not that I'm a vegan or anything - I'm just lazy and this is quick and easy and full of fiber. So as I finished the last pulse on my Braun mini chopper -- I sliced my plump red pepper. My mouth watered for dinner. Time to check my blood sugar - dinners on! I'm right handed, for those of you who were dying to know. So I pricked my left thumb and 5 seconds later my little trusty Agamatrix tells me my blood sugar is 596 mg/dL. No way, buddy! My mouth is watering. My last meal was hours ago - and my last blood sugar, 3 hours before, was 190! So I get a second opinion - a right hand opinion! The right hand says my blood sugar is 167 mg/dL. A lot more... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=686989 Thu, 21 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 686989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=682795&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F06%2F20%2Fjoe-montana-on-hypertension%2F Filed under: Prevention, Drugs, Celebrity spokespersonJoe Montana admits that after he retired from the NFL, he kept eating as if he was playing football every day. He also concedes that his diet was less than healthy, full of burgers and french fries. Still, he was surprised when -- at a routine check up -- his doctor diagnosed him with hypertension or high blood pressure. Because high blood pressure usually has no symptoms, the only way for a person to find out if they have the condition is to be checked.Montana began working out every day and eating in moderation to turn his health around and he also signed on as spokesperson for a campaign on hypertension awareness sponsored by Novartis. Now he wants to spread the word so that others can be screened for the condition and learn to take ... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=682795 Wed, 20 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 682795 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=675563&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F06%2F11%2Fchecking-your-blood-pressure-at-home-is-the-best-thing%2F Filed under: Daily newsHypertension is so common these days, that they even have machines that can check your blood pressure on the spot in the grocery stores -- it's that easy to do. And although most of the time people think getting tested at the doctor's office or hospital is best, when it comes to your blood pressure that isn't necessarily the case. A study that looked at blood pressure monitoring done regularly by patients at home versus having them visit a professional found that home monitoring was the best way to measure changes over time and assess if adjustments were needed in medication and treatment regimens. Just make sure you stick to the schedule your doctor recommends.Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments (Sour... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=675563 Mon, 11 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 675563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=676271&cid=t_446833_134_f&fid=35216&url=http%3A%2F%2Forsaaetas.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F06%2Fconfession-and-question.html Confession: I rarely log my blood sugars anymore... oops.Question: Does anyone else find that when they don't log a blood sugar and it's in range, they almost immediately forget the number?! If I've forgotten what I am, I just assume I was fine, and THEN I remember the number.This happens a lot to me. sheesh girl, get it together!!Maybe this is another thing that I shouldn't admit--like the security code issue.Remember to vote for the MLB All-Star game. It might be cheap for me to ask, but just vote, and vote for anyone but the Yankess. Personally, I voted all Red Sox, except the outfield--I voted for Crisp, but not for Drew or Manny--heck, Manny's not gonna show up anyways, so why bother! And other than tonight Drew's been kind of lame (I no sooner hit "vote" than he hit a homerun--ooops ... orsa aetas blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=676271 Sat, 09 Jun 2007 03:10:00 +0100 676271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=650909&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2007%2F05%2F31%2Fgestational-diabetes-linked-to-oral-contraceptives-with-a-high-a%2F Filed under: Type 2, Adult Onset, ResearchResults from a recent study reveal oral contraceptives are not all alike. Researchers from the Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program of Northern California recently released evidence linking oral contraceptives containing a highly androgenic progestin to a 43% increased risk of gestational diabetes, when used for five years leading up to pregnancy. Interestingly, oral contraceptives with a low androgenic progestin were associated with a 16% decreased risk of gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes develops in about 4% of pregnant women who have never had diabetes, but exhibit high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Untreated, it can be dangerous for both mother and baby. The study selected 356 women with gestational diabetes and 368 women wi... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=650909 Thu, 31 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 650909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=644730&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F5%2F28%2Fstroke.html Dr. Diana Fite, fully recovered after a stroke. From the NY Times 052807There is a pretty amazing story in the NY Times about an emergency physician, Dr. Diana Fite of Houston, who had a stroke while driving her car. She was able to call 911 on her cell phone and tell the ambulance drivers exactly where to take her so that she could get state of the art stroke treatment…Memorial Hermann Hospital. Because she was knowledgeable about hospitals in the Houston area, she wasn’t taken to the closest hospital, rather she was taken to the best hospital. She was given a blood thinner, tPA, and the clot in the artery feeding her brain dissolved. She had a complete reversal of her stroke symptoms – a total paralysis of her right side. This story is all the more remarkable to me bec... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=644730 Mon, 28 May 2007 15:11:30 +0100 644730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=638011&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F05%2F25%2Fsleep-apnea-pregnancy-heart-risks%2F Filed under: Prevention, ResearchSleep apnea is a big problem all by itself, but when you start complicating things by combining it with a pregnancy the health risks only compound. In a recent study that looked at 4 million women sleep apnea was tied to an increased risk for both gestational diabetes and pregnancy-induced high blood pressure.This is one of those situations where prevention really is the best medicine. Maintaining a healthy weight (obesity is one of the greatest risk factors) and actively managing sleep apnea if you have it is key.Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments (Source: The Cardio Blog) The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=638011 Fri, 25 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 638011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=638013&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F05%2F24%2Fhigh-blood-pressure-is-now-a-global-issue%2F Filed under: Diet, Prevention, Obesity, DrugsGlobal warming is not the only adverse effect to hit worldwide these days. High blood pressure is also on the rise around our blue ball. Millions of people from the United States to Africa are dying from heart disease. High blood pressure does not just lead to heart disease; now strokes, kidney failure and dementia are being attributed to the global problem.One of the concerns surrounding high blood pressure is that it does not command the sort of media attention that cancer or AIDS might. High blood pressure is a fairly old-school problem and does not carry the sort of glamour that the recent bird flu outbreaks can garner. Another concern is that many people are just not willing to discuss the issue. Some cultures even take it as an insult to h... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=638013 Thu, 24 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 638013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=629132&cid=t_446833_87_f&fid=34866&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecardioblog.com%2F2007%2F05%2F22%2Fless-and-less-people-following-heart-healthy-diets%2F Filed under: DietBack in 1999 when the government issued diet recommendations for people with high blood pressure they inadvertently triggered the exact opposite of the effect they were going for: the number of people eating the right heart-healthy foods actually went down, instead of going up. A recent study found that only 22% of people with high blood pressure are bothering to make efforts towards following the right diet.This seems to point out yet another major flaw in our health care system, but experts aren't exactly sure where the problem lies. It seems to be in several places, probably starting with doctors who don't emphasize and teach enough and ending with the patient dealing with possible availability and convenience issues.Read | Permalink | Email this&nbs... The Cardio Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=629132 Tue, 22 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 629132 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=590856&cid=t_446833_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F5%2F4%2Fgot-diabetes-then-buy-this-book.html Living with diabetes can be tough. There is so much stuff to learn and so many things to do. It can be hard to keep track of everything. And, it can seem overwhelming, particularly around the time you are first diagnosed. That’s why I am recommending if you have diabetes or if you know someone who has diabetes, get your hands on a great little book, "Know your Numbers, Outlive your Diabetes.” It is written by Richard Jackson, MD, a doc at the world famous Joslin Diabetes Center and Amy Tenderich, a professional journalist who also happens to have diabetes (check out her website: www.DiabetesMine.com). Five Numbers to KnowThis book points out that there are five essential tests everyone with diabetes should have:Hemoglobin A1c (often just called A1c). This is a measure of t... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=590856 Sat, 05 May 2007 00:41:23 +0100 590856