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        <lastBuildDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 23:50:12 GMT</lastBuildDate>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/hysterectomy/hysterectomy-may-not-warrented/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/hysterectomy/hysterectomy-may-not-warrented/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Women&#39;s Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Do I Need to Get a Hysterectomy?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 23:50:12 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Surgical removal of the uterus is one way to treat heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, or fibroids. Less invasive procedures are often another option. ]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ A hysterectomy is a surgical operation to remove the uterus, the organ known as the “womb” that is located in the female pelvis. During pregnancy, a fertilized egg implants itself in the lining of the uterus, where the developing fetus is nourished prior to birth. Hysterectomy Is a Permanent, Irreversible Removal of the Uterus After undergoing hysterectomy, a woman cannot become pregnant. Few Hysterectomies Are Done to Treat Cancer or Life-Threatening Conditions Only about 10 percent of the more than 600,000 hysterectomies performed in the United States each year are for cancer treatment and are considered potentially lifesaving. ( 1 ) The rest are essentially elective procedures, and some believe that many of them are unnecessary. How Common Is Hysterectomy or Surgical Removal of the Uterus? After cesarean section , it is the second most frequently performed surgical procedure for women who are of reproductive age in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approximately 20 million women in the United States have had a hysterectomy. ( 2 ) The majority are performed as a treatment for health conditions when alternate therapies, such as medication, hormone treatments, or less invasive surgical procedures, have been unsuccessful in completely alleviating symptoms such as severe bleeding and pain. When Is Watchful Waiting a Treatment Option For Fibroids? The National Institutes of Health estimate that more than 200,000 hysterectomies are performed each year for fibroids . Because they often cause no symptoms, fibroids are usually detected incidentally during a pelvic exam or a prenatal ultrasound. And treatment is not always warranted. “Uterine fibroids can be completely asymptomatic, causing no problems, or they can cause severe pain, loss of blood, and significantly affect quality of life.” explains Beth Battaglino, RN , CEO of HealthyWomen, a women’s health information and advocacy organization. “The mere presence of fibroids is generally not enough of a reason to have them treated. Your gynecologist should be able to tell if your symptoms are related to your fibroids and whether the symptoms are significant enough to seek treatment,” she adds. Problematic Uterine Fibroids May Resolve With Menopause For some women, fibroids do become problematic, causing heavy bleeding during menstruation. Large fibroids can push on the bladder or rectum or cause abdominal distention. But their growth patterns vary; they may grow slowly, rapidly, or remain the same size. Some may shrink on their own. In most cases fibroids stop growing or shrink once a woman goes through menopause . So even if a woman hasn’t found complete relief from her symptoms after trying medication or undergoing minimally invasive procedures, but she is close to menopause, she may want to wait and see if her symptoms improve before choosing hysterectomy. You Don’t Have to Wait for Menopause to Stop Pain Watchful waiting should be considered an option, not an obligation. “A woman who is miserable from her fibroids, or is experiencing life-threatening bleeding, should not wait until menopause,” says Kate White, MD , assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Boston University in Massachusetts. Alternative Treatments to Hysterectomy: What to Consider There are lots of alternatives to consider before undergoing hysterectomy, an operation to remove the uterus. Options depend on the root problem causing symptoms: Fibroid treatments include hormonal medication, uterine artery embolization, and myomectomy. Endometriosis treatments include oral contraceptives, laparoscopy, and laparotomy. Uterine prolapse can be improved with Kegel exercises or treated with a pessary device. Abnormal uterine bleeding can be treated with a dilatation and curettage (D&C) , progestions , GnRH agonists, oral contraceptive pills, or an IUD. Not Everyone Will Feel Better After Hysterectomy Many women falsely believe that endometriosis can be cured through having a hysterectomy, yet this isn’t true. Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease defined by the presence of tissue similar to that which lines the uterine cavity appears as in other places, such as the lining of the pelvis, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bowel, bladder, or even the lung. If all the endometriosis is not removed at the same time as the removal of your uterus and your ovaries, you may still have endometriosis and its symptoms. Even less invasive procedures aren’t always the solution for symptoms attributed to endometriosis. The only way to determine for sure that you have endometriosis is through a minor surgical procedure called a laparoscopy. Many women with pelvic pain believed to be caused by endometriosis learn that they do not, in fact, have endometriosis after undergoing this diagnostic surgery. Hysterectomy Won’t Cure Endometriosis “Women need to be counseled that surgery and suppression go hand in hand,” says Rebecca Flyckt, MD, assistant professor of surgery at Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio. “Although every woman is hopeful that this one surgery will “clean it out for good,” and that they will never need another surgery, this is very improbable,” she adds. Urinary Incontinence: A Hysterectomy Risk to Consider “There is definite risk of developing urinary incontinence after a hysterectomy,” says Antonio R. Gargiulo, MD , medical director of the center for robotic surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. The risk can be as high as 8.5 percent, and is more common in patients who are obese, have had at least one vaginal delivery, and have a large uterus, according to a study published in January 2017 in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology . ( 3 ) Is Hysterectomy Right For You? Be Your Own Best Advocate Not too long ago, many doctors believed that uterus-sparing treatments couldn’t trump the traditional hysterectomy. But today, many experts are willing to work with women who want to consider alternative therapies instead of the surgical removal of the uterus. Do You Know All Your Options Besides Hysterectomy? There is also evidence that some women may be opting for surgery without fully exploring other options. A study published in March 2015 in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that the majority of women consider at most one alternative treatment prior to hysterectomy. ( 4 ) Furthermore, the study found that nearly 1 in 5 women (18.3 percent) had postsurgical pathologic findings that did not support having undergone a hysterectomy. In other words, some women had surgery that they did not need. Is the Uterus, or Any Human Organ, Useless? What’s more, there is still a misconception that the uterus is merely a reproductive organ and somehow if a you’ve already borne children or decided you don’t plan to in the future, your uterus is somehow "disposable." Nina Coffey , the president of HERS Foundation, a women’s health advocacy group based in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, which has counseled women since 1982, stresses that women need more accurate and clear advice about the female anatomy . (HERS stands for Hysterectomy Education Resources and Services.) Understand the Role of Female Organs in Long-Term Health Coffey believes that the number of unwarranted hysterectomies continues to grow in part because, “Women have not been educated about the critically important functions of the female organs and the consequences of their removal.” As she points out, “There is no age or time when the female organs no longer function.” And some question the judgment of removing any healthy organ from a person’s body. If You Opt for Hysterectomy, Choose the Best Surgical Method for You If you do decide to go ahead with a hysterectomy, you should consider which route may be the best choice for you. Many surgeons are more comfortable with doing abdominal hysterectomy, and most are still performed this way. “This is no longer a tenable situation,” says Dr. Gargiulo, who believes that modern medicine has to be patient-centered, not surgeon centered. Choosing Hysterectomy Doesn’t Mean Choosing Abdominal Hysterectomy “Physicians today are often more willing to partner with their patients to help find strategies to treat their disease that meet their individual goals and desires,” adds Dr. Flyckt. Get a Second Opinion if Abdominal Hysterectomy Is the Only Treatment Offered If your surgeon insists on an open abdominal surgery, you should probably get a second opinion. In fact, it is always wise to seek out a second opinion, particularly when you are deciding on a surgery that can’t be reversed.   	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[cut out silhouette of a contemplative woman from behind sitting on top of a uterus thinking about hysterectomy]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/schizophrenia/beneficial-foods-for-people-with-schizophrenia/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/schizophrenia/beneficial-foods-for-people-with-schizophrenia/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Mental Health Conditions]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Schizophrenia and Diet: 5 Beneficial Foods to Try]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 23:13:21 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[There’s no such thing as a “schizophrenia diet,” but certain foods can help people with the condition feel better.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Food is medicine — and that’s even true for people with schizophrenia , a mental health condition that causes disordered thinking, delusions, and hallucinations.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298e1c1f9d-8d75-40de-b7da-84df5adb6327 Of course, medication and psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and behavioral skills training, remain the frontline treatments for helping people with the condition manage their symptoms and lead successful, fulfilling lives.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bb561db3-d05a-4216-b384-bc5bbe612f13 While there is no such thing as a schizophrenia diet, researchers are studying the potential links between food and symptoms of schizophrenia .  	   
 Schizophrenia and Diet: What the Research Says  	  What the Research Says  	  In one review, researchers evaluated the role of inflammation in schizophrenia and suggested that there may be a potential role for anti-inflammatory foods in helping manage schizophrenia symptoms in some people.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292e1a4310-5342-4155-8e64-a670b7164945 “Eating specific foods doesn’t replace the other proven treatments for the condition, but it can be an addition to treatment that can have some benefit,” says April Hackert, RDN, a psychiatric culinary medicine dietitian who specializes in nutrition therapy for people with mental health conditions. “The food choices a person makes each day impact their mental health, [as] the human brain requires certain nutrients,” says Hackert. “The ability to effectively use behavioral coping skills is rooted in the biological health of the brain.” “Some nutrients help our brain to function optimally,” explains Shebani Sethi, MD , an associate professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University, and the founding director of Stanford Metabolic Psychiatry . Those nutrients, she notes, include: Iron Omega-3 fatty acids Vitamin B6 Vitamin B12 Zinc There’s no evidence that diet alone can help keep schizophrenia symptoms at bay, but evidence does suggest that certain diets can help with metabolic side effects such as insulin resistance and obesity caused by certain antipsychotic medications used to treat schizophrenia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d542e24f-043d-4f51-8124-4b7c78bda499 However, the results of a pilot study led by Dr. Sethi found that a ketogenic diet not only restored metabolic health in schizophrenia patients who also continued taking their medications — it further improved their psychiatric conditions as well.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a5b8bcff-f6e6-401e-b897-f29ab99fd192 “This diet has shown promise in stabilizing neural networks and reducing psychiatric symptoms, highlighting the impact of nutrition on mental health,” says Sethi. In addition, there is evidence that eating a well-balanced diet like the Mediterranean diet — while following your prescribed treatment regimen — could help prevent potentially life-shortening health conditions such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes , which are conditions that commonly occur together with schizophrenia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762900f8a077-5b6f-47ff-833e-b570081e8f0c “I think we kind of do a disservice to patients and miss an opportunity when we don’t talk about food,” says nutritional psychiatrist Drew Ramsey, MD , founder of the Brain Food Clinic, an integrative mental health clinic offering patients dietary assessment, psychotherapy, and medication management via telehealth, and author of the upcoming book Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets to Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind . “Diet is one of the aspects important in the management of schizophrenia,” says Dr. Ramsay — but it’s often a neglected part of treatment. Studies have shown a link between the consumption of ultra-processed food and depression as well as other mental disorders.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a728f740-f7b7-4b1e-8b49-d0f619ea09dd Although no specific evidence-based diet for schizophrenia exists, experts believe these five foods could benefit people with the condition:  	   
 1. Fish and Seafood to Protect Your Brain  	  Fish and Seafood  	  The mental health benefits of fish and seafood come from nutrients called omega-3 fatty acids — in particular, eicosatetraenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3s aid the brain in communicating with the rest of the body, as well as reduce oxidative stress, a type of chemical damage that can wreak havoc on the brain.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a799fd05-0f2c-48ea-a527-cb373c816e01e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762960caf1cd-a9b6-4aa2-b862-b95e5dd0613d Studies have shown that the ingestion of omega-3 fatty acids not only increases learning, memory, and cognitive well-being but also increases blood flow to the brain.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629db3369b7-af71-4fbb-8bdc-e76c57611dbe One study review showed that individuals with schizophrenia receive an inadequate supply of blood to the cerebral cortex — or outer layer — of the brain, suggesting that increasing consumption of omega-3 fatty acids could lead to improvements in the brain health of individuals with schizophrenia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629cf463ab3-b639-463a-8b81-fbedf2dc73aa In addition, the ready-to-use omega-3s in fish are thought to reach the brain faster than the omega-3s in other foods, says Hackert. “With fish and seafood, the body doesn’t have to work as hard as with some other foods to benefit from the nutrients. The nutrients are ready to go.”e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f7d46236-3384-4a05-819d-6011461767a6  	   
 2. Lentils to Help Regulate Your Mood  	  Lentils  	  Lentils are inexpensive and packed with lots of nutrition for the brain. They are high in protein, and they also contain other important brain nutrients, including folate and antioxidants, says Hackert. Further, lentils are a good source of tryptophan , a building block of serotonin , a brain chemical that regulates mood and behavior.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292c3c890a-525c-4a3b-ac2d-b83008df9697 One cup of cooked lentils delivers 50 percent of the body’s daily requirement of tryptophan, adds Hackert. Lentils are also rich in folate, a nutrient that may be involved in the development of certain conditions affecting the brain and nervous system.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290a7ea624-6fbc-4ffc-b690-e3c7892e03d2 Folic acid deficiency has been identified as a risk factor for schizophrenia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762952dc0fdb-e5c6-49e1-a8ad-c29963d70b0d And a study review found that folate supplements demonstrated improvements in symptoms of schizophrenia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629139834a5-5b9d-49a9-81f2-4a678b830f2c While supplements can help, foods rich in these critical nutrients are a better choice because the body absorbs natural nutrients more easily than nutrients in pills or powder form, Sethi explains. Lentils are easy to prepare as soups and stews. Just boil them in water with some chopped vegetables and add salt and seasonings for flavor. Even easier: Grab some lentil chips or crackers at the grocery store.  	   
 3. Berries to Help Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes  	  Berries  	  Berries may be small in size, but they’re big in nutritional benefits, says Hackert. Three reasons people with schizophrenia may want to eat them often: Most berries — including blueberries— contain anthocyanins, nutrients shown to protect and improve brain function.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293b2d66c4-adbe-40fd-974f-7da80dece3d3 They’re sweet and tasty, yet low in calories and sugar.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762906dc3873-531c-40e1-a8cd-52e0b0c27f45 They’re packed with fiber and antioxidants — heart-healthy nutrients that help reduce the risk of diabetes. Daily consumption of whole blueberries increases insulin sensitivity, helping to reduce the risk of developing diabetes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c6958029-e491-4087-968e-92fc037e5900  	   
 4. Avocado to Help Suppress Hunger  	  Avocado  	  Surprise! Creamy avocados are a high-fiber food that helps you feel satisfied for longer after eating. That’s important for people with schizophrenia, who often have difficulty with feeling full after meals.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762905b2a936-4db9-4494-92c1-8ea20f11cc3e Nutritional interventions like filling up on fiber-rich foods can help you feel fuller longer and help prevent weight gain often associated with the condition.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f6ab5f21-b0d7-4554-a404-0f54e5678eb4  	   
 5. Broccoli to Boost Your Brain Health  	  Broccoli  	  Broccoli is another food that’s full of fiber, plus it delivers lots of essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, zinc, and potassium, Hackert says. What’s more, broccoli is a top food source of sulforaphane, a natural substance that may be a game-changer for people with schizophrenia. Scientists at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore hypothesize that schizophrenia may be caused, in part, by chemical imbalances in the brain related to the brain chemical glutamate , which plays a role in sending messages between brain cells.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293eb1b28c-54fe-46e0-92b2-6a50c193f7b6 If sulforaphane can change the levels of the brain chemical glutamate, which scientists have observed in rat studies, it may help improve symptoms in people with schizophrenia. They’re currently using a broccoli-sprout extract to test their theory. If the extract proves to be effective, taking it might allow people to reduce their medications, which can lower their risk of side effects like weight gain, as well as involuntary movements, restlessness, stiffness, and shaking.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293eb1b28c-54fe-46e0-92b2-6a50c193f7b6 “Unfortunately, [sulforaphane] breaks down quickly when you cook broccoli, and you might need to eat pounds of raw broccoli to get an effective dose. So there are still unknowns about the best way to get it,” says study author Thomas Sedlak, MD, PhD , an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Johns Hopkins University, and director of its Schizophrenia and Psychosis Consult Clinic. “But given the medical challenges in this patient community, cooked broccoli is probably better than none. The benefits of vegetables are well known for a variety of health concerns,” he says.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  While there is no such thing as a “schizophrenia diet,” nutrition can play an important role in managing symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes — conditions that commonly occur together with schizophrenia. Certain foods — such as fish, lentils, berries, avocados, and broccoli — are particularly good for the brain and might help with some schizophrenia symptoms and medication side effects.  	   
 Resources We Trust  	   Mayo Clinic: Schizophrenia Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Schizophrenia National Institute of Mental Health: Schizophrenia American Psychiatric Association: What Is Schizophrenia? National Alliance on Mental Illness: Schizophrenia   	   
 Additional reporting by Barbara Kean .  	   
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                <media:title><![CDATA[5 Beneficial Foods for People With Schizophrenia]]></media:title>
                <media:description><![CDATA[Discover how a nutritious diet can play a role in managing schizophrenia symptoms, alongside traditional treatments.]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/cancer/glass-of-milk-per-day-could-cut-colon-cancer-risk/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/cancer/glass-of-milk-per-day-could-cut-colon-cancer-risk/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Cancer]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[A Daily Glass of Milk Could Cut Colorectal Cancer Risk by Nearly One-Fifth]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 21:34:03 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Foods and drinks rich in calcium can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, while red and processed meats and alcohol can raise the risk.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Getting 300 milligrams (mg) of calcium each day — the same amount found in an 8-ounce glass of milk — may cut the risk of colorectal cancers by nearly one-fifth, according to new research. The new findings are part of the largest single study on diet and colorectal cancer (also called bowel cancer), which included over a half-million women and nearly 100 food products and nutrients.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d292c063-9789-4f08-bf1a-2b98d33ccf1b “These results are compelling enough to encourage people to increase calcium intake in their diets, which would probably have other major benefits to bone health ,” says Suneel Kamath, MD , a gastrointestinal oncologist at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, who was not involved with the study. Colorectal Cancer Is on the Rise in Younger Adults In 2024, there were over 100,000 new cases of colon cancer in the United States and almost 50,000 new cases of rectal cancer. Although the overall incidence of colorectal cancer has dropped slightly in the last 15 years, rates in adults under 55 have been gradually rising since the mid-1990s.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629eb8c5883-5519-4a95-8712-150c8384e4ee Research suggests that more than half of all cases of colon cancer are preventable.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a68dd6d2-b12f-4340-ad54-01c9f324457e Calcium Decreases Colorectal Cancer Risk, Alcohol Raises It To examine the link between what people eat and drink and the risk of developing colorectal cancer, researchers used dietary data from more than 542,000 women who were part of the Million Women Study, one of the largest prospective studies of women’s health in the world.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291642587e-7255-4781-aa91-25f9d21781c1 The women completed a comprehensive survey about the foods and drinks they consumed, and a small subset of women filled out a 24-hour diet assessment. Participants were followed for an average of 16.6 years, and during that time more than 12,000 women were diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Key findings included: Foods and drinks rich in calcium, such as milk and yogurt, were associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Both dairy and nondairy calcium sources (like dark green leafy vegetables) had a similar effect on risk. That suggests that calcium may be the main factor responsible for reducing risk of cancer. There was a clear link between alcohol consumption and increased risk of colorectal cancer. About 20 g of alcohol (equivalent to a glass and a half of wine) per day was associated with a 15 percent increased risk. Red and processed meat were associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Eating 30 g more per day (about 1 ounce) above average intake was linked to an 8 percent higher risk. Intake of the nutrients riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium were also associated with a reduced risk, as was consuming breakfast cereal, fruit, whole grains, carbohydrates, fiber, total sugars, folate, and vitamin C. There are theories on why calcium may have this protective effect, said lead author Keren Papier, PhD , a senior nutritional epidemiologist at the University of Oxford in England, in a press release.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629211e0414-758c-4c44-b93f-6026c049123a “It’s suggested that calcium might protect against bowel cancer by binding to bile acids and free fatty acids to form a type of a harmless ’soap,’ which stops them from damaging the lining of our gut. This ’soap’ effect helps these bile and fatty acids to be swept out of the gut like a ’spring clean’ so they can’t build up and so are less likely to cause damage,” she said. Findings Would Likely Apply to Men “This is a very interesting study because the number of women included is so large. The finding that calcium can reduce risk of colorectal cancer is very interesting, and I was surprised by how strong the protective effect was,” says Dr. Kamath. It’s likely that these findings would also apply to men, because the risk factors for developing colorectal cancer are not expected to vary based on gender, he adds. “The study also confirms that alcohol, red meat, and processed meats are carcinogenic for colorectal cancer, which have been seen in other studies,” says Kamath. “Hopefully, this additional information will help more people cut back and quit drinking alcohol .” The findings also confirm that diets high in fruits, whole grains, fiber, and vitamins (likely a surrogate marker for a diet rich in vegetables) can reduce colorectal cancer risk, he says. Do Calcium Supplements or Calcium Fortified Foods Have the Same Benefits? The study found that most of the women were consuming above the recommended level of calcium (roughy 700 mg more). For some, this might be from having added calcium supplementation in their food, according to the authors. But more research is needed to determine whether calcium supplements and calcium-fortified foods have the same effect on reducing colorectal cancer risk, the authors said. “I would not recommend calcium supplements based on this study, as it only looked at dietary calcium intake, not supplements,” says Kamath. “Additionally, we know that excess calcium intake can increase risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks . It is difficult to consume excess calcium in the diet, but if you’re taking supplements, it’s very easy to overdo it.” Sugar Not Associated With an Increased Risk of Colon Cancer The study also dispels the myth that sugar feeds or causes cancer, says Kamath. “Interestingly, people with diets higher in total sugars had lower colorectal cancer risk. Now I wouldn’t recommend adding sugar to your diet, but these data do clearly indicate that sugar does not cause cancer — and it’s likely that sugar intake has nothing to do with cancer risk for most cancers,” he says. How to Lower Your Risk for Colorectal Cancer “Maintaining a healthy weight and stopping smoking are the best ways to lower your risk of bowel cancer. The findings from our study suggest that alongside cutting down on alcohol and red and processed meat intake, calcium could also play a key part in lowering the risk of bowel cancer,” says Dr. Papier. People should know that the best diet for lowering colorectal cancer risk is a heart-healthy one like the Mediterranean diet — meaning one high in vegetables, whole grains, lean meats like poultry, fish, beans, and fiber, and low in red meat and processed foods, says Kamath. “The reality is, we figured out the best diet for ourselves hundreds of years ago, and it isn’t going to change. The trick lies in finding a way to be consistent about following a heart-healthy diet. People keep chasing after the next superfood or supplement, but they should really be working on ways to stick to a healthy diet consistently for many years, not just weeks or months,” he says.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[Hand pouring milk into a glass in a kitchen]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/wellness/how-to-get-your-prescriptions-after-disaster-strikes/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/wellness/how-to-get-your-prescriptions-after-disaster-strikes/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Wellness]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[How to Get Your Prescriptions After Disaster Strikes]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 21:28:12 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Learn how to get your prescriptions transferred and filled when you’re forced to leave your home with little or no warning during a state of emergency.  ]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[When disaster strikes and you have to flee your home with little or no warning — the current reality for many wildfire evacuees in the Los Angeles area — whether or not you have enough of your prescription medication may not be the first thing on your mind. On top of that, medications you already have may be damaged by extreme conditions like unsafe water or excessive heat and need to be replaced.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294adab93d-132f-4522-b57d-5fda87259fd0 Overall, preparation can make it easier to avoid missed medication doses, says Vipul Patel, PharmD , the executive director of pharmacy and oncology services at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles. “If you have enough lead time, take all your medications and supplies, including blood glucose monitors, with you,” Dr. Patel says. When you can plan ahead, it also helps to have a complete list of your medications, any drug allergies, and contact information for your doctors and your regular pharmacy. Call Your Pharmacy First Your go-to pharmacy — if it’s open and reachable — is a great place to call for help when you know you’ll have to evacuate. “Patients can contact their pharmacies and discuss earlier refills. There are many situations where insurance will allow earlier refills or additional quantities,” Patel says. “You may also be able to contact your pharmacy and have them send you your medication list, if the pharmacy is accessible during the state of emergency.” Can I Fill My Prescription at Another Pharmacy From the Same Chain? When your regular pharmacy is part of a chain, another location may be able to help you get refills, says Ryan Nix, PharmD , the senior director of operations at Vanderbilt Specialty Pharmacy in Nashville, Tennessee. “If your pharmacy is closed, many pharmacy chains share information across their different locations, so at any of the locations, they would be able to pull in your information and electronically transfer the prescription to their location,” Dr. Nix says. “If that is not an option, another resource would be to let the pharmacist know what prescriber you see for your medication and they could contact that prescriber directly to get a new prescription.” Transferring Your Prescription to a New Pharmacy When you evacuate to an area that isn’t served by the same chain as your local pharmacy, you may be able to get the pharmacy back home to transfer your records and medication information to a drugstore at your current location, Nix says. “Provide the new pharmacy with the contact information to your normal pharmacy location and the pharmacist should be able to take care of the rest,” Nix says. Your Insurance Company or Doctor May Also Be Able to Transfer Your Prescriptions Things get trickier — but not impossible — when you evacuate without your medications and prescription information and your local pharmacy near home is closed. In that case, a pharmacist may be able to call your insurance or your doctor to verify the prescription information, Patel says. Alternatively, you may be able to call your insurance company and get a complete medication list along with authorization for emergency refills. Be sure to keep your health insurance card on your person when you evacuate. “Many insurance plans will allow exceptions during a state of emergency that may provide a way to fill your medication early if you had to leave in a hurry or allow you to fill outside your normal pharmacy network,” Nix says. They may also agree in some cases to waive or reduce extra out-of-pocket costs you would normally face for using an out-of-network pharmacy. What if I Don’t Have Any Refills Left? Don’t assume you’re out of luck just because you’re out of refills, Patel says. When there’s a federal, state, or local emergency declared, pharmacies can provide what they determine is a reasonable supply of medication even when you don’t have refills. “Under their professional judgment, pharmacists can refill prescriptions if failing to refill the prescription might interrupt ongoing care or have a significant adverse impact on the patient’s well-being,” Patel says. Consider Replacing Damaged Meds Exposure to the elements can damage medications, making them ineffective or even dangerous. If your medications were exposed to high temperatures, replacing them is probably best, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629cb70db78-3b96-447f-a653-2745457f44e7 In the same vein, any medication exposed to flood waters — even if they’re sealed in screw-top bottles or have snap-on lids — should not be used, because they could be contaminated. Don’t Forget to Store Medication Properly Some drugs, such as insulin and liquid antibiotics, require refrigeration. If you’re forced to evacuate and don’t have a fridge handy, or your electrical power is out for an extended period, use a cooler or medication travel case with ice packs to make sure your medication is safely stored.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f7c33013-c829-4523-a473-9de75652d7db The FDA offers information on how to store insulin safely .  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/allergies/managing-allergies/winter-allergy-symptoms.aspx]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/allergies/managing-allergies/winter-allergy-symptoms.aspx]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Allergies]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Winter Allergies: What Causes Them and How You Can Get Relief]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 21:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Yes, you can have seasonal allergies in the winter, too. Here’s what causes them, how to get rid of triggers, and how to treat symptoms you do have.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Most people don’t associate winter with allergies, but allergies persist into and through the cold months. Though it’s important to know that winter allergies do pose slightly different problems than they do during other seasons. (And knowing how to avoid them or minimize triggers can help keep you feeling your best all winter long .)  	   
 What Causes Allergies During the Winter  	  Causes  	  “You don’t have pollen [in most of the U.S.] in the winter,” says Douglas H. Jones, MD , a board-certified allergist at the Tanner Clinic in Layton, Utah. So outdoor winter allergies aren’t such a cause for concern. “But you still have the indoor [allergens].” And if you’re spending more time indoors during cold weather, you might notice an increase in allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, wheezing, and itchy, watery eyes. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, common indoor allergens (that might trigger symptoms in winter) include: ( 1 ) Animal Dander It’s the dander (dead skin flakes), not the hair of household pets such as cats and dogs, that can cause acute or chronic allergic reactions in people. Dust Mites These microscopic bugs might be the most common cause of year-round indoor allergies, notes the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America. ( 2 ) Dust mites thrive in bedding, carpeting, and the upholstered furniture inside your home. Indoor Mold We all breathe in mold spores, but for those with an allergy, exposure can trigger sneezing, congestion, and itchiness. Mold and mildew favor damp areas, like basements and bathrooms. Cockroach Droppings These persistent pests can live anywhere, and while they’re not a sign of an unhygienic or unsanitary household, it’s important to keep food well-contained and be vigilant about cleaning up crumbs. Fixing leaky faucets and pipes and sealing up cracks and crevices in your home can help keep cockroaches away. Matthew A. Rank, MD , an allergy expert with the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona, says that although specific data is hard to pin down, roughly 5 to 20 percent of Americans suffer from some form of winter allergy.   	   
 What You Can Do to Prevent Winter Allergies  	  Preventing Triggers  	  A big problem with winter allergies is that cold-weather lifestyles can turn a simple allergic reaction into something worse, says Dr. Jones. “People are turning up their heaters, which makes the indoor air even drier,” he says, “and that leads to dry noses, which increases the incidence of nosebleeds and skin cracking.” This, in turn, boosts infection risk when a person’s nasal passages are already inflamed from allergies. Dr. Jones recommends using nasal saline rinses to lower the risk of contracting a secondary viral infection. It may not be possible to get rid of winter allergies entirely, but you can reduce exposure to allergens, at least in your own surroundings. Dr. Jones, Dr. Rank, and other allergy experts offer these tips for minimizing indoor allergen exposure in winter: Use a humidifier to reduce dryness in the air, but don’t turn your home into a rainforest: Dust mites thrive in humidity over 60 percent and temperatures of 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Mold also grows faster in high humidity. Dr. Rank recommends a maximum humidity of 50 percent. Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting, which provides a favorable environment for dust mites. Use area rugs instead. Clean, dust, and vacuum regularly, using a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Wash sheets weekly in hot water — at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit — to kill dust mites, and use hypoallergenic cases for mattresses and pillows to keep dust mites trapped. To minimize animal dander , bathe pets once a week — though not more often, as more frequent bathing can dry out a pet’s coat and skin and make the problem worse. Keep animals out of the bedroom of anyone in the house who has allergies. If you’ve done all you can to allergy-proof your home but you still have symptoms, it might not be your fault, Dr. Jones adds. Public areas, such as workplaces, can have the same allergy-inducing conditions as your home: dry air, dust, and dust mites. In addition, pet owners often get dander on their clothes and unwittingly transport it into public places. The level of cat dander in public places is high enough to trigger an allergy, Dr. Jones says.  	   
 Winter Allergies Versus a Cold  	  Allergies vs Cold  	  During the winter, it can be difficult to distinguish an allergy from a cold. Both share symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. But colds are usually viral infections, while an allergy is your body’s immune system response to an irritant or trigger. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), colds don’t usually last more than a couple of weeks, while allergies will continue as long as the allergen is present. ( 3 ) And symptoms like itchy, watery eyes are typically a sign of an allergy, not a cold or the flu, while aches and fever are not associated with allergies. A cough sometimes comes with allergies but is more commonly a sign of a cold, and when it’s more severe, the flu.  	   
 Treatment Options for Winter Allergy Symptoms  	  Treatment  	  To treat allergy symptoms, Dr. Jones cautions against older over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, which, he says, can do more harm than good. ”Some of these drugs have too many side effects,” he notes, ”and people don’t really understand how to match their symptoms to the product. They just know they feel bad and want to feel better.” For example, some OTC allergy drugs contain decongestants, like pseudoephedrine, which can raise a user’s heart rate. The active ingredient in the antihistamine Benadryl — diphenhydramine — causes some tissues to dry out and promotes urinary retention, Dr. Jones says. ”So people with prostate problems, who may have trouble urinating, find that that condition worsens when they take diphenhydramine.” Dr. Jones says that better options are allergy medications that contain loratadine (such as Claritin) and cetirizine (such as Zyrtec), two drugs that moved from prescription to OTC status in recent years. Prescription steroid nasal sprays (some of which are also now available over-the-counter) tend to be more effective than antihistamine tablets when used regularly, adds Dr. Rank, though individual responses vary and the two types of drugs are often used in combination. Talk to your doctor and your pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medication, to discuss whether it’s appropriate for your symptoms and potential side effects. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology notes that if you have a pet allergy, you might consider immunotherapy ­— allergy shots or tablets — that can potentially desensitize you to the allergen and provide lasting relief. ( 4 )  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[someone washing dander off small dog in tub woman vacuuming kitchen floor for dust washing machine to was sheets]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis-rashes/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis-rashes/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Arthritis]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Rheumatoid Arthritis Rashes: What You Need to Know]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 20:57:18 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Learn about rheumatoid vasculitis, neutrophilic dermatoses, and other rheumatoid arthritis rashes, their symptoms, and when to seek medical care.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the joints, but it can impact other organs and systems in the body, including the skin. For many people with RA, its effects include rashes in different areas of the skin. In some cases, skin rashes are related to RA or RA treatments, but some skin issues aren’t connected to arthritis at all. Keep reading to find out more about what rashes can occur when you have rheumatoid arthritis, what symptoms to look for, and when to see your doctor.  	   
 What Is a Rash in RA?  	  What Is an RA Rash?  	  “There are different types of rashes that can occur in association with rheumatoid arthritis,” says Jonathan Greer, MD , a rheumatologist at Arthritis and Rheumatology Associates of Palm Beach in Florida. There isn’t one specific “RA rash,” but rather various associated skin issues, says John M. Davis III, MD , a rheumatologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. These rashes can be papules, pustules, plaques, or ulcers — but they should not be confused with rheumatoid nodules , which are palpable, firm nodules under the skin that may or may not turn into an ulcer, says Dr. Davis. Although sometimes rashes can be a superficial and short-lived reaction, in the case of RA, they can sometimes be a sign of uncontrolled disease or more serious complications.   	   
 Rheumatoid Vasculitis  	  Rheumatoid Vasculitis  	  Rheumatoid vasculitis is one of the more serious rashes that people with RA can get, says Dr. Greer. “Vasculitis is inflammation of the small blood vessels in the skin,” he says. Rheumatoid vasculitis affects people who have had RA for at least 10 years.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298766c9bb-914f-4d55-9927-d136e8cfc5c7 The rash can present in a variety of ways, says Greer. “It can be red or purplish spots, or little pinpoint red dots on the skin, and it can be very itchy,” he says. It usually appears on or around the fingers, hands, feet, and toes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298766c9bb-914f-4d55-9927-d136e8cfc5c7 Rheumatoid vasculitis can cause severe complications if it isn’t diagnosed and treated. This can include skin ulcers, gangrene (when body tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply), heart attack, and stroke.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298766c9bb-914f-4d55-9927-d136e8cfc5c7 “Typically, people who have rheumatoid vasculitis have very active disease that is not well controlled and blood tests that are strongly positive for rheumatoid factor ,” says Greer. It’s not clear why some people with RA develop rheumatoid vasculitis, but smoking, male sex, and other systemic manifestations, such as rheumatoid nodules, lung disease, and scleritis (an inflammatory condition that affects the white part of the eye) are risk factors, says Davis.  	   
 Neutrophilic Dermatoses  	  Neutrophilic Dermatoses  	  Neutrophilic dermatoses are a group of inflammatory skin conditions in which the immune system is overactive, and white blood cells called neutrophils are dysregulated.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762934fdbc59-6766-4659-b5da-4eaa4599319c There are several types of neutrophilic dermatoses that may develop in people with RA. Sweet Syndrome This rash typically consists of tender papules (small, solid raised bumps), that may enlarge to form plaques or blisters. It can be painful and burning, but is not itchy. The rash most often appears on the face, neck, arms, and hands. People with Sweet syndrome may also have a fever , joint pain, and malaise.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762934fdbc59-6766-4659-b5da-4eaa4599319c Pyoderma Gangrenosum There are many variants of pyoderma gangrenosum, a painful skin condition that causes large, painful sores on the skin, usually on the legs. It usually starts with a small bump on the skin (it can look like a spider bite), but within days it can evolve to form shallow or painful deep ulcers, which can expose underlying tendons or muscle. It’s not an infection (though it can turn into one), and it usually clears up with treatment, though it can result in scarring or skin discoloration.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291f63cbf1-a498-485c-980c-8f92c24ad34f Rheumatoid Neutrophilic Dermatitis This type of rare rash occurs most often in middle-aged women with severe RA. It usually looks like red, raised papules, plaques, nodules, or blisters that are tender and painful but not itchy. The lesions are most often found on the hands, arms, feet, legs, neck, and trunk.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762934fdbc59-6766-4659-b5da-4eaa4599319c Palisaded Neutrophilic Granulomatous Dermatitis (PNGD) and Interstitial Granulomatous Dermatitis (IGD) Sometimes these two conditions are put together under the term “reactive granulomatous dermatitis.” PNGD can look like raised bumps that are depressed in the middle and are usually found on the extremities, especially the elbows and fingers. In IGD, the rash looks like ring-shaped plaques or rope-like cords that appear on the sides of the torso and skin folds of the trunk.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762934fdbc59-6766-4659-b5da-4eaa4599319c  	   
 Felty Syndrome  	  Felty Syndrome  	  Also known Chauffard-Still-Felty disease, this is a rare condition in which a person has RA, neutropenia (in which the body has low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell), and splenomegaly, a condition in which the spleen is larger than normal. It occurs in 1 to 3 percent of people with RA, and mostly in women. People with Felty syndrome may have skin ulcers (sores), especially on the legs, and signs of bleeding under the skin. There can also be patches of abnormally colored skin.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299bb876a9-68a1-494e-84e0-ff3a05dc8b20  	   
 Palmar Erythema  	  Palmar Erythema  	  Palmar erythema is redness of the palms. Although it’s not itchy or painful, it may look like a rash. Although palmar erythema commonly occurs in people with RA, it’s not specifically related to it, says Davis. “It also occurs in other systemic conditions such as liver cirrhosis , thyrotoxicosis, diabetes mellitus, and during pregnancy, among others,” he says. Because the nerves and muscles in the hands require good blood circulation, conditions that may impact that — including rheumatoid arthritis — could cause the color in your palms to change.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762956307220-7e73-4f13-a406-d04ab85f1afb  	   
 RA Rashes Caused by Drug Reactions  	  Drug Reactions  	  There are many RA medications that can cause psoriasis -like eruptions or other rashes, says Davis. “The most notable for causing rashes are TNF inhibitors, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine, but any drug can be an offending agent,” he says. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a protein in your body that causes inflammation, and TNF inhibitors are drugs that stop inflammation. They’re used to treat inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis. TNF inhibitors can be used by themselves or in combination with other medications.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762939ecc372-2a26-4762-9d25-1d3aa15deb5b Hydroxychloroquine and sulfasalazine are disease-modifying drugs that calm the immune response and reduce inflammation. “Typically, people develop a hives -like red rash that’s very itchy and all over the body. It usually happens within a day or two after they take the medication, and so it’s usually pretty easy to diagnose,” says Greer.  	   
 Hives  	  Hives  	  People with RA can develop hives — red, raised welts that itch — that are unrelated to a medication, says Greer. “It's also called urticaria, and that can occur as part of the immune system's response to having rheumatoid arthritis,” he says.  	   
 Non-RA Related Rashes Such as Eczema, Psoriasis, or an Infection  	  Non-RA Rashes  	  People with RA can also have rashes that are caused by other conditions that affect the skin, including eczema , psoriasis, or an infection, says Davis. Eczema On dark skin, an eczema rash can look purple, brown, or gray, and on a light skin tone, it looks pink, red, or purple. Research suggests that people with atopic dermatitis (the most common form of eczema) are more likely to develop RA than the general population, but people with RA don’t have a higher risk of developing eczema than the average person.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295aec1bbb-be17-4c2d-9617-39cb1567dbf2 Psoriasis Although it’s possible that a person with RA could have psoriasis, psoriasis is associated with a type of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis , says Greer. The most common type of psoriasis causes thick, raised areas of skin known as plaques. “So if a person with arthritis also had psoriasis, we would want to make sure that they don’t have psoriatic arthritis instead of rheumatoid arthritis ,” he says. Infection Germs sometimes enter a rash and cause an infection. Signs that a rash is infected might include pus, yellow or golden crusts, pain, swelling, warmth, or an unpleasant odor. The skin around an infection might look red, purple, or brown. You might also have systemic symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes or a fever.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b2b6084d-6291-4e79-9e68-a78f5e08cded  	   
 When to Seek Medical Care for a Rash  	  When to Seek Medical Care  	  People with rheumatoid arthritis who develop rashes that are new, abnormal, and persistent should see their physicians, including their rheumatologist, to determine if some change in RA management is needed, says Davis. A rheumatoid rash is often a sign that RA is not being appropriately managed, says Greer. “To reduce the likelihood of an RA rash, it’s vitally important that the rheumatoid disease gets under control,” he says. “If it’s suspected that the rash is caused by medication, the first step is to hold or stop the medication. Often, the next step is a dermatology consultation for possible skin biopsy,” Davis says. Treatment with medications like antihistamines or sometimes oral glucocorticoids may be indicated to relieve symptoms of the rash, says Davis. “Rashes that are painful, spreading, or causing ulcers are potentially more serious and require more urgent attention,” he says. If you have a high fever with the rash, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fc4c8eb5-8013-4931-afa7-5f117ec3f41b  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) rashes may be a sign of uncontrolled disease or complications. Rashes caused by conditions such as rheumatoid vasculitis can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Persistent, painful, or spreading rashes should be evaluated by a doctor.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[rheumatoid arthritis hands with Palmar Erythema redness of the palms]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/inflammatory-bowel-disease-brain-fog/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/inflammatory-bowel-disease-brain-fog/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Digestive Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Brain Fog: What Causes It and What to Do About It]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 20:29:49 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[If you have an inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis and have trouble focusing or remembering things, you may be experiencing brain fog.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you have days when it feels like your mind is cloudy or less sharp than usual, you may be experiencing brain fog . People with some medical conditions — including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (UC) — are more prone to brain fog than others.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f72dcd7c-5020-42ce-821e-1af7e8bef5a0 Brain fog isn’t a clinical diagnosis. Rather, it’s a term used to describe a group of symptoms that cause temporary cognitive impairment, or a slight decline in mental abilities. Brain fog can make it hard to focus, remember things, stay motivated, pay attention, and perform routine tasks.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762975d0e457-d11b-4318-9fe4-2dcb169a7022e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ae77e6ac-afbe-4e8b-997b-423812bec5af Here’s why brain fog can happen in people with IBD and how to cope if it’s negatively affecting you.  	   
 What Causes IBD Brain Fog?  	  Experts don’t know for sure what causes IBD brain fog, but they have some theories. “The gut is often called the ‘second brain,’” says Supriya Rao, MD , a gastroenterologist at Lowell General Hospital and a clinical assistant professor at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. One reason: There are millions of nerve endings in your intestines that send signals to the brain through chemical messengers like serotonin and dopamine , says Dr. Supriya Rao. These chemical messengers have a powerful effect on our mood and stress levels. When IBD causes irritation and inflammation in the intestines, it can interrupt these messengers and cause issues in the brain, like brain fog. According to Supriya Rao, some evidence suggests brain fog in IBD may come from factors such as:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d7173add-8a91-47b5-8dc9-a12175ad6ca6e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d5f1602d-6121-43d1-8695-dd7c7df8f7f8e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629425f1e24-c7f8-4e36-8819-7a18a33d3ea6 Inflammation Nutrient deficiencies Fatigue Some medications Stress Anxiety Poor sleep Research suggests brain fog may also be linked to structural changes in the brain that are known to happen among people with IBD, especially in the areas that handle learning and memory.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292e268220-a65e-4333-83ca-645883b8c685  	   
 5 Ways to Manage IBD Brain Fog  	  If brain fog related to IBD is negatively affecting you, these tips can help manage its effects on your life. 1. Follow Your IBD Treatment Plan You’re more likely to experience fatigue and brain fog if you have active IBD symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292af0b186-f0bb-4722-9e1f-f5335263b407 Your treatment plan is designed to address the root cause of your brain fog — IBD. “In general, we recommend that patients with brain fog in IBD get their IBD under control, as brain fog tends to improve with the management of IBD symptoms,” says Qin Rao, MD , a gastroenterologist with Manhattan Gastroenterology in New York. 2. Ask Your Doctor About Adjusting Your Meds Some prescription medications, like steroids and immunosuppressants (drugs that affect your immune system), can lead to certain symptoms of brain fog, such as fatigue.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292af0b186-f0bb-4722-9e1f-f5335263b407e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762958138798-34d0-4b3b-bb8a-8a9fc8a465d2 Your healthcare provider can help you figure out if any of your meds are contributing to brain fog. “A patient should have a specialist assess their medication history,” says Dr. Qin Rao. Once they have the full picture, they can guide any medication adjustments. Be sure to tell your doctor about any over-the-counter medications or supplements you’re taking, as these could play a role in brain fog, too. One small study of 66 people found that certain probiotic supplements were associated with brain fog, especially in men and Caucasian people.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762962128cdb-6c25-4c2f-afca-74862f8f37fb 3. Eat Gut- and Brain-Friendly Foods As mentioned, addressing the root cause of brain fog — IBD — is one of the best ways to manage this symptom. As you probably know, nutrition plays a key role in managing IBD.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292054e384-0c67-458e-8fd6-0614ec92c761 For starters, Supriya Rao recommends eating foods with plenty of fiber. High-fiber foods can boost both your digestive and your brain health.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762996e8ba8c-4b76-4a48-83f9-6677115c693a You can find IBD-friendly fiber in the following foods:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ea4af06f-5178-4918-a9f3-aa206057d9a6 Fruits like bananas, raspberries, and applesauce Well-cooked vegetables like squash, carrots, and green beans Low-fat proteins like fish, nut butters, and chia seeds On the other hand, some foods are known to cause inflammation when eaten frequently over time, which can have negative effects on the gut and brain.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299cd18bb7-bd5d-40a1-b246-425193aa8377 Foods linked to increased inflammation in people with IBD include: e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ea4af06f-5178-4918-a9f3-aa206057d9a6 Red meats (such as lamb, beef, veal, pork, or bison) Processed meats (such as deli meats, sausages, hamburgers, or hot dogs) Coconut oil Dairy fat Palm oil 4. Curb Stress Too much stress can lead to brain fog and worsened IBD symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762947fe2a88-51fb-46df-a697-f85b4f45f5cfe60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762928f5d7b8-c974-4e17-832c-0bb497106dbc While it’s probably not realistic to cut all stress out of your life, it’s important to find effective ways to manage stress and minimize its effect on your brain and body. Regular exercise , for instance, is a known stress reliever that may alleviate brain fog, says Qin Rao. Most adults should aim for 30 minutes of physical activity each day.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762968c2d49c-39d9-43aa-9726-8c985f3c65ea Exercise doesn’t always have to be intense to have benefits, and even daily walks may help you feel better.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c76da3c0-cd11-47a6-b080-e67248275e0c Any activities that incorporate mindfulness can also help, says Supriya Rao. (Mindfulness is the practice focusing on what you’re feeling and sensing in the present moment without judgment rather than worrying about the past or future.)e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762968c2d49c-39d9-43aa-9726-8c985f3c65ea Mindfulness-based interventions are part of a broader category of brain-gut behavioral therapies, which aim to address interactions between the gut and the brain and have shown promise in the management of IBD.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ac21d6e3-4656-4e7c-8dfd-6bc40cbf9bb9 When stress of the day starts to pile on, take frequent breaks to use your favorite mindfulness techniques, which can include activities like deep breathing , meditation , or body scanning.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762968c2d49c-39d9-43aa-9726-8c985f3c65ea “Try yoga or start a gratitude practice. These are great ways to reduce stress,” adds Supriya Rao. If you try all these techniques and still feel stressed, consider reaching out to a mental health provider, who can discuss effective techniques to manage stress.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629652fe861-d5b2-4cb2-b6c8-3996b9703c9e 5. Prioritize Sleep More than 75 percent of people with IBD say they don’t sleep well. Poor sleep can raise your risk of IBD flares and brain fog.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762933572d3b-336e-4801-b5fc-fda419050eea e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762947fe2a88-51fb-46df-a697-f85b4f45f5cf One way to get better sleep each night is to improve your sleep hygiene, or healthy habits around sleep. Try adopting these habits if you haven’t done so already.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b241b365-4698-45bc-bd79-0b6b78382659 Keep the same bedtime and wake-up schedule every day, even on weekends. This can help regulate your circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock, which in turn can regulate your sleep cycle. Follow a consistent, relaxing bedtime routine every night to wind down and get ready to sleep. Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, dark, and comfortable. A bedroom that’s too warm or noisy or lets in too much light can keep you up at night Eat only light snacks (no heavy meals) two to three hours before bed. Large meals can have the opposite effect and keep you up longer. Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine in the afternoon and evening, as these substances can interfere with sleep. If sleep issues stick around even after you follow great sleep habits for several weeks, you may want to reach out to a mental health provider. They can offer treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which is a top treatment for sleep disorders like insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep). CBT-I involves several visits with a mental health provider, who helps you reframe negative thoughts around sleep. They also use techniques like sleep restriction and relaxation therapy to help improve your sleep.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629362cbef8-4d91-476b-b261-2a30aef43131 Research shows that, for people with IBD, CBT-I not only helps you sleep better, but may also improve pain, depression, and inflammation.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629220969c6-8b26-44b8-8cac-cf34a95be9fc  	   
 The Takeaway  	  If you have an IBD like Crohn’s disease or UC, you may be prone to brain fog — trouble with focus, memory, motivation, and attention. The cause of brain fog in IBD isn’t fully understood, but experts think it is multifactorial and can happen as a result of inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, medication side effects, stress, or poor sleep. You can lessen your IBD brain fog by following your IBD treatment plan, getting good nutrition, managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and asking your provider to tweak your meds if needed.  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/poison-ivy/what-does-poison-ivy-look-like/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/poison-ivy/what-does-poison-ivy-look-like/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Skin Conditions]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[How to Know if You Have an Early Poison Ivy Rash: Pictures and Symptoms]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 19:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Poison ivy causes millions of itchy rashes every year, yet many people can&#39;t identify the common plant. Learn what poison ivy looks like in every season.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Nothing ruins a walk in the woods quite as fast as poison ivy, a plant that causes an allergic reaction in up to 75 percent of people who come into contact with it.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762902ca0105-5a5d-4633-b1ae-e324b6276e0e Poison ivy contains an oil called urushiol, which causes a red, itchy rash when it transfers to the skin. Every part of the plant contains this oil, from the roots to the stem to the leaves, so it’s important to steer clear of poison ivy whenever you can. Still, even if you’ve been exposed to urushiol oil, you can take some precautions to ward off a skin rash.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629db571579-6de6-4330-808b-e569623e1f2b  	   
 What Are the Symptoms of a New Case of Poison Ivy?  	  Symptoms  	  The symptoms of a poison ivy rash include the following: Redness Itching Bumps Swelling Blistering Black spots or streaks (rarely) The rash typically appears 12 to 48 hours after exposure to poison ivy and lasts two to three weeks.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ba551236-a5f2-4b24-b9ef-90ba72e8669be60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e883b068-4a8c-4cfa-948a-7b146fea5095 The rash develops only where your skin was exposed to the oil. Touching the rash doesn’t spread it, and the rash itself is not contagious. However, if you still have oil from the plant on your fingers and then you touch your face, for example, it’s possible to transfer the oil to other parts of your body and cause the rash there as well. Urushiol tends to absorb quickly, so you’re at risk of spreading it for just a short period.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e883b068-4a8c-4cfa-948a-7b146fea5095 Generally, the areas of the skin with the most oil on them will develop a rash first; the areas with less oil will develop a rash later. It's also possible for the oil from poison ivy to stick to your clothing, shoes, and even your pet’s fur. In this case, touching your clothing or pet could also cause a rash. (Most pets aren’t allergic to poison ivy, though.)e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e883b068-4a8c-4cfa-948a-7b146fea5095e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629013c3e57-121e-4956-9349-23bd80413fde  	   
 What Treatments Are Available for a Poison Ivy Rash?  	  Treatment  	  You don’t necessarily need to treat a poison ivy rash, as it will subside by itself. If this is your first rash, it can last for 21 days or longer. If you’ve had one before, the rash should subside within 14 days.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a61eda32-64a8-4a4d-ad23-2916e18cf3d2e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291b5e98c2-eddf-4937-b988-1dbd0e13b124 But just because the rash will fade more quickly doesn’t mean the itch will be less intense. The more you’re exposed to poison ivy, the more severe your allergic reaction may be.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762977f3ade3-e3ff-425a-ae18-4fa99669c6dc If you think you may have touched poison ivy, washing your skin within 10 to 20 minutes to remove any potential urushiol oil may help prevent a rash. Here’s how:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b5d11885-bfcb-4eef-b855-00ea2180115d Wash your skin with either rubbing alcohol, dishwashing soap, laundry detergent, or a poison ivy soap or cleanser. Wash gently; scrubbing too hard can rub the plant’s oil deeper into your skin. Rinse your skin under cool water to wash away the cleanser and prevent any possible irritation from that product. Wash under your nails to get any oil that may be stuck, as it can spread to other areas if you touch them. If the rash has already appeared, you can try to ease the itch by applying calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to the skin or taking an oral antihistamine (a topical antihistamine can make the itching worse). If you develop skin blisters, try not to break them open, since tearing the skin can leave you more vulnerable to an infection.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295f1b679b-9fcd-4d4e-b018-57e285d60010  	   
 Is It Possible to Prevent Poison Ivy?  	  Prevention  	  The best way to prevent poison ivy is to avoid the plant altogether, but to do that, you need to know what it looks like. There are two types of poison ivy in the United States, both of which have clusters of three leaves (hence the saying, “Leaves of three, let it be”).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762906ce716d-f99c-4838-8327-15a9584b30be Eastern poison ivy is a hairy, ropelike vine that has three shiny green leaves and one small stem (although in the fall, the leaves can turn red). It’s found in Arizona and throughout the Midwest, South, and Northeast. Western poison ivy is a low shrub with three leaves that may have yellow or green flowers and white to green-yellow berries. It’s found throughout the West, Midwest, and Northeast.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d6cbe7f9-767e-4c49-8c38-0357738ea029 If you’re going to be outdoors in an area where poison ivy grows, you can take a few precautions to avoid getting the oil on your skin: Wear long clothing like long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and boots. If you’re handling the plant directly, wear gloves. Apply an ivy blocker — also known as bentoquatam lotion — to form a coating that protects the skin from the urushiol oil, preventing rashes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762966202012-112e-4ae3-8264-d3ce4a0a131d About 15 minutes before going outdoors, apply the product to the areas of your skin that are likely to come into contact with poison ivy, including your arms, legs, and hands.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c3c3b0d8-141a-4c21-9151-82fcd1bc0795 It’s also a good idea to wash all your clothing in a washing machine using hot water and laundry detergent, and bathe any pets.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762940f45636-37e1-4d3c-8c21-e55b7e3eddcc  	   
 When Should I See a Doctor?  	  When to See a Doctor  	  If you frequently encounter poison ivy outdoors — for example, if you work in areas where it often grows — you may want to talk to your doctor about ways to prevent rashes. You should go to an emergency room or call 911 right away if you’re experiencing signs of a severe allergic reaction or these potentially serious health issues:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ef578f2d-a2e2-454d-a2f3-a7e7198898a9e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b087c953-3ebe-4945-8347-0e04a703998c Trouble breathing or swallowing A rash around your mouth, genitals, or one or both eyes Swelling on the face, including swelling of one or both eyes Intense itching that interferes with your ability to sleep A rash on most of your body A fever An infection (pus, yellow fluid, odor, increased tenderness) Irritation after being exposed to the smoke of burning poison ivy  	   
 The Takeaway  	  If you're dealing with a red, itchy rash after being outdoors, you might have encountered poison ivy, which causes about 75 percent of people to have an allergic reaction. Symptoms include swelling, blistering, redness, and itching. If this happens to you, wash your skin with mild soap and water promptly to shorten the duration of these symptoms.   	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[early stage poison ivy rash inside forearm]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/cancer/esophageal-cancer-survival-rates/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/cancer/esophageal-cancer-survival-rates/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Cancer]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Esophageal Cancer Survival Rates: What You Need to Know]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:57:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Learn about esophageal cancer survival rates, key factors affecting them, and the importance of early detection.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Each year, an estimated 22,370 new esophageal cancer cases are diagnosed. In 2024, esophageal cancer accounted for about 1 percent of all cancers in the United States. Overall, the esophageal cancer rate has stayed relatively stable, with a slight decline over the past 10 years.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296249dd77-da33-46d2-a891-701eab44b905 “While esophageal cancer remains a deadly disease, incremental progress in treatments has been improving the prognosis,” says Ryan Sugarman, MD, a gastrointestinal medical oncologist and the medical site director of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Nassau, New York. “As we learn more about different targets for esophageal cancer, I am optimistic we will have new treatments available that will continue to improve prognosis,” says Dr. Sugarman.  	   
 What Is Esophageal Cancer?  	  What Is Esophageal Cancer?  	  Esophageal cancer is a cancer that starts in the esophagus, the part of the digestive system that passes food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. It happens when cancerous cells begin to multiply and eventually create a tumor. Although the cancer is aggressive and grows quickly, people often don’t notice the symptoms until the cancer has spread. The two most common types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. These types differ according to the kind of cells they originate from and their location in the esophagus.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293566dad3-6c28-46ce-a246-294919e9fdd8 Adenocarcinoma This type of cancer starts in the mucus-producing glandular cells of the esophagus that help you swallow and usually affects the lower part of the esophagus, near the junction with the stomach. It’s the most common form of esophageal cancer in the United States.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295913f371-058b-4bcc-a4d6-4055bc0f30f2 Squamous Cell Carcinoma This type begins in the squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells lining the esophagus. It is more commonly found in the upper and middle parts of the esophagus.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293566dad3-6c28-46ce-a246-294919e9fdd8 Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common esophageal cancer worldwide and is more common in parts of the world where tobacco and alcohol use are prevalent.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295913f371-058b-4bcc-a4d6-4055bc0f30f2  	   
 Esophageal Cancer Survival Rates  	  Survival Rates  	  “The five-year overall survival rate is the percentage of people who are alive five years after diagnosis, a number that is determined regardless of cause of death,” says Sugarman. The five-year disease-free survival rate is the percentage of people who have no evidence of disease five years after treatment, he says. Survival rates depend on several factors, including the stage of cancer, a person’s overall health, and how well the cancer responds to treatment. Keep in mind that the rates are meant to be a general guide, and each individual is different. It’s important to talk with your care team about your specific case and outlook.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296e6998d5-0432-4db4-a869-c115eac91928 How are survival rates calculated? The American Cancer Society uses information from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, which is run by the National Cancer Institute. That database tracks five-year survival rates for esophageal cancer in the United States based on how far the cancer has spread. Esophageal cancer survival rates are assessed according to whether the cancer is localized, regional, or distant. Localized The cancer is growing only in the esophagus. Regional The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissues. Distant The cancer has spread to organs or lymph nodes away from the main tumor. The most recent five-year survival rates are based on cases of esophageal cancer diagnosed between 2013 and 2019 (meaning that the survival rates were calculated between 2018 and 2024). The five-year survival rates are: 49 percent for localized cancer 28 percent for regional cancer 6 percent for distant cancer The survival rates don’t separate squamous cell carcinomas from adenocarcinomas, although people with adenocarcinomas usually have a slightly better prognosis (outlook) overall. Survival rates are based on large groups of patients and do not account for individual factors that might affect the prognosis. It’s important to discuss your prognosis and chances of five-year survival with your care team.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c3a80d4e-3664-47d3-9c99-d97cc89a06a2  	   
 Factors Affecting Life Expectancy  	  Factors Affecting Life Expectancy  	  “The most important factor that determines a patient's likelihood of survival is their initial stage. The hope of long-term survival is greatest if a patient is a candidate for curative intent therapy (treatment that aims to cure the cancer and restore health to what it was precancer),” says Sugarman. There are other factors besides stage at diagnosis that play a role as well. Stage at Diagnosis “It is important to stage esophageal cancer, because it will help determine the goals of therapy (curative versus palliative), the type of therapy recommended, as well as the prognosis,” says Sugarman. Doctors use a variety of methods to assess the size and spread of the cancer. This information, along with the cancer's location in the esophagus (upper, middle, or lower) is used to classify the cancer into stages, ranging from 0 to 4, which guides treatment decisions and provides insights into the patient's chances of survival. The earlier esophageal cancer is detected, the higher the likelihood of successful treatment and long-term survival. But because esophageal cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in the early stages, it is frequently diagnosed at more advanced stages, when survival rates are lower.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291189e943-9669-4726-8aff-c62af6428c66 Speed of Metastasis Esophageal cancer grows rapidly, and the speed at which the cancer spreads is another critical factor. Grade 3 cancer cells (the ones that look very different from normal cells) tend to spread faster. The faster the cancer spreads, the more difficult it is to treat, reducing the chances of survival.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291713cc30-9ca5-41b5-b747-baba2620d48f Age and Gender Age and gender can influence survival rates. Younger patients often have better outcomes than older individuals, as they may be more resilient to aggressive treatments and better able to tolerate surgery or chemotherapy.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299ba7277e-5df6-4a49-8cb0-76807fc291d5 Men are more likely to develop esophageal cancer than women, and they generally face slightly lower survival rates.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297e900891-9730-4a2e-9ed4-2d4d6ad120d3 Lifestyle Factors There are risk factors associated with a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer. They include conditions and lifestyle factors that cause irritation in the esophagus. Drinking very hot liquids on a regular basis Bile reflux Achalasia, a condition that causes difficulty swallowing because a muscle in the esophagus won't relax Alcohol consumption Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables Obesity Barrett esophagus, which is precancerous changes in the cells of the esophagus Radiation treatment to the chest or upper abdomen Smokinge60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629660769c1-5078-4e7c-a96f-92d9b6d11d1d Treatment Response People can respond to the same treatment in different ways, and those with a stronger response increase their likelihood of five-year survival. In people with advanced disease there are biomarkers that determine how likely a patient is to respond to a treatment, says Sugarman. “For example, tumor tissue can be tested for proteins, and if a patient expresses high PD-L1 (programmed death–ligand 1) or deficiency of mismatch repair protein they are more likely to respond to immunotherapy. If a patient has overexpression of the HER2 protein, there is an anti-HER2 therapy that can be added to chemotherapy,” he says. A protein called claudin has been found to be a targetable protein, and there is now an approved treatment, Vyloy (zolbetuximab) that is used in combination with chemotherapy to treat claudin-expressing gastroesophageal cancer, says Sugarman. “If a patient has additional treatment options, I am generally more optimistic about their chances of longer term survival than if there are more limited options,” he says.  	   
 Late Signs and Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer  	  Late Signs and Symptoms  	  Esophageal cancer may not present noticeable symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage. This is why it’s often diagnosed late, which limits treatment options. Some of the most common signs and symptoms to watch for include: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): This is often the first noticeable symptom of esophageal cancer. This may begin as a sensation that food is “sticking” in the chest. Unexplained weight loss: Unintentional weight loss, especially when accompanied by difficulty swallowing, could be a sign of esophageal cancer. Pain: Pain in the throat or back, behind the breastbone or between the shoulder blades. Persistent cough or hoarseness: A persistent cough, hoarseness, or a change in voice can occur if the cancer spreads to the lungs or affects the nerves controlling the vocal cords. Heartburn or indigestion: While common in many people, persistent or severe heartburn could be a sign of esophageal cancer, especially when associated with other symptoms like difficulty swallowing. Although these symptoms may point to esophageal cancer, they can also be caused by less serious conditions. Talk to your doctor if any of these signs persist or worsen.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629df65ac1c-b79c-447e-a6fb-08cbc7cf0926  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Early detection significantly improves survival rates — the earlier esophageal cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance for successful treatment and long-term survival. Survival rates determine prognosis and can vary dramatically by stage, with earlier stages offering a much better outlook than more advanced cancers. Lifestyle changes can impact outcomes. Quit smoking, reduce alcohol intake, and manage obesity and GERD to improve your treatment response and overall survival. Watch for warning signs including difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, and persistent chest pain that may indicate esophageal cancer and warrant early medical attention.  	   
 Resources We Trust  	  Cleveland Clinic: Esophageal Cancer Outlook/PrognosisMayo Clinic: Esophageal Cancer Diagnosis and TreatmentAmerican Cancer Society: Esophagus Cancer Early Detection, Diagnosis, and StagingCancer Research UK: Survival for Oesophageal CancerMount Sinai: Esophageal Cancer  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/low-sodium-diet/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/low-sodium-diet/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Diet &amp; Nutrition]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[What Is a Low-Sodium Diet? A Detailed Beginner’s Guide]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:46:54 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[A low-sodium diet offers many benefits for heart health. Learn how to reduce sodium intake and follow a low-sodium meal plan.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Anyone who’s been told to try a low-sodium diet knows that cutting back on sodium can be a real challenge. It’s often not enough to put down the salt shaker; it’s also a matter of reading nutrition labels and cooking more of your meals at home. If you’re curious about a low-sodium diet or struggling to follow one, here’s more on what this eating plan entails, ways it might improve your health, and how to get started.  	   
 How Does a Low-Sodium Diet Work?  	  How It Works  	  The main focus of a low-sodium diet is keeping your daily sodium intake below 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day. Some plans suggest an even lower daily limit of 1,500 mg.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295079e781-95b5-44d0-b3f1-df275576ed59 Some sodium in your diet is necessary, since it’s an electrolyte that supports hydration , blood volume, and nerve and muscle function.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292d30e15d-189f-4aa5-9316-f3ac02ad9e8b However, most Americans get too much sodium — roughly 3,500 mg daily — which can increase blood pressure.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629384a06c3-9aeb-460c-8a01-eb6868b9886e “Low-sodium diets decrease the risk of high blood pressure and reduce fluid retention, which are both good for heart health,” says Rohit Vuppuluri, DO , an interventional cardiologist at Chicago Heart and Vascular Specialists in Illinois. Sodium causes your blood to retain more water, placing more pressure on your blood vessels. Over time, this added pressure can negatively impact heart health because it forces your heart to pump harder than necessary.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f076faf1-cac9-42ce-8a7b-3848d1a919e2 Because processed foods tend to have added sodium for both flavor and preservation, low-sodium diets tend to emphasize unprocessed or minimally processed foods, especially fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, low-fat dairy, lean meat and poultry, fish, and unsaturated fat sources like vegetable oils. “People with hypertension, congestive heart failure, and liver disease will benefit from a low-sodium diet,” Dr. Vuppuluri says. A low-sodium diet is also important for managing chronic kidney disease .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297ede2542-dce9-4c5e-828a-f21852d5aa42  	   
 Types of Low-Sodium Diets  	  Types  	  Low-sodium diets limit sodium intake and encourage the consumption of plant foods and lean proteins. Here are a few types of low-sodium diets that work well for anyone hoping to reduce their sodium intake. DASH Diet The most prominent low-sodium diet is the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet. The DASH diet encourages eating a specific number of servings from various food groups every day:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b48988b4-5612-4395-b8af-2a17eb813c06 Fruits 4 to 5 servings per day Vegetables 4 to 5 servings per day Whole Grains 6 to 8 servings per day Nuts, Seeds, and Beans 4 to 5 servings per week Meat, Poultry, and Fish 6 servings or less per day Low-Fat or Fat-Free Dairy 2 to 3 servings per day Mediterranean Diet “The Mediterranean diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, fish, and healthy oils while reducing meat and dairy intake,” says Sandra Avitia, RD, a dietitian with U.S. Renal Care who is based in Chicago. The diet is flexible and doesn’t put strict limits on the amount of each food that you should eat, though it recommends consuming red meat infrequently and dairy in low to moderate amounts. It also recommends focusing on whole, minimally processed foods, which are often lower in sodium.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762959d1547c-efc0-46dd-bd72-c856537d46ab Other Diets That Can Be Low-Sodium Technically, any eating pattern that includes 2,300 mg of sodium per day or less is considered a low-sodium diet. Keeping your sodium intake low is possible without strictly adhering to the DASH or Mediterranean diets. You can keep your sodium intake below this threshold by reading sodium amounts on nutrition labels, preparing your own food as often as possible without added salt, and choosing naturally lower-sodium options.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c623cfc3-d461-400c-bf44-aef8d7c6eeb4  	   
 Potential Health Benefits of a Low-Sodium Diet  	  Benefits  	  Eating a low-sodium diet typically means consuming a variety of nutritious foods, which comes with the following potential health benefits. May Help Lower Blood Pressure There’s a strong link between consuming excess sodium and having high blood pressure, so it’s hardly surprising that lowering sodium intake can also lower blood pressure. A review even found that following the DASH diet can significantly reduce blood pressure in people of all ages, even in people who don’t have high blood pressure.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d1bccf70-4bcd-4d31-9f67-2780b931cf4b May Help Lower LDL Cholesterol Both the DASH and Mediterranean diet are high in fiber and unsaturated fats and low in saturated fat , sodium, and added sugar. Research shows that this style of eating can help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a8ab0894-ece4-4941-b202-f352c4e435f0 This is a good thing because too much LDL cholesterol leads to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart disease.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762958ea1d95-4ddc-49e0-91cb-6cd5becf9310 May Help Manage Kidney Disease In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys can’t regulate sodium and fluid levels in the body the way they can when they’re functioning normally. By limiting how much sodium you consume, a low-sodium diet can help reduce the likelihood of kidney disease complications, such as worsened kidney function and the need for hemodialysis (a procedure that does the work of your kidneys by removing waste from blood).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762910fda98c-06b7-416e-a9b3-4ba7a0be44d0  	   
 Can a Low-Sodium Diet Lead to Weight Loss?  	  Weight Loss  	  “A low-sodium diet will decrease blood pressure which will reduce fluid retention, decreasing weight,” Vuppuluri says. But this loss of water weight is different from fat loss, he notes, and the scale will stop dropping once your body has rid itself of excess fluid. That said, following the DASH or Mediterranean diet could lead to fat loss if it also puts you in a calorie deficit (consuming fewer calories than your body uses each day), Vuppuluri says. Note that it can be difficult to achieve long-term weight loss through diet. A review of existing research on 14 popular diets — including the Mediterranean and DASH diets — found that while people do tend to lose weight in the first six months, most of that weight loss is regained after one year.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762918762990-549c-45df-9b44-64757094dd41 Long-term, individualized behavioral changes are typically needed for long-term weight loss success, Vuppuluri says. Still, following a low-sodium diet that’s rich in nutritious foods comes with plenty of health benefits.  	   
 Are There Any Disadvantages to a Low-Sodium Diet?  	  Disadvantages  	  For most people, following a low-sodium diet doesn’t carry health risks. In fact, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend consuming no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day, which is in line with a low-sodium diet.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290232543f-4253-4bdd-a020-c296298cab9d However, Avitia notes that people who sweat a lot — like athletes and people in hot climates with labor-intensive jobs — need more sodium in their diet to make up for what’s lost in sweat. If you fall into this category, have your blood sodium levels checked before starting a low-sodium diet. Having too little sodium in your blood (a condition called hyponatremia), can lead to nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, drowsiness, fatigue, irritability, and muscle weakness or cramps. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, coma, or death. However, these more serious symptoms are typically due to an underlying medical condition, not a low-sodium diet.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762992f68c32-971e-43dc-9499-ed52aed76a5b Otherwise, the biggest disadvantage of a low-sodium diet is that it can take time to get used to. “Foods low in sodium will seem less flavorful at first,” Vuppuluri says. However, your taste buds adjust to lower sodium foods over time.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629dd5190d3-e91e-42f2-b446-867ef8ae6e45 “It is difficult to eat out at restaurants, as well, because sodium is often higher in these meals,” adds Vuppuluri.  	   
 A Detailed Low-Sodium Diet Food List and Foods to Avoid  	  Food List  	  It’s important to prioritize unprocessed or minimally processed foods when following a low-sodium diet, since processed ones tend to have sodium added for flavor and to extend their shelf life. Here are the best foods to eat on a low-sodium diet, plus the ones to limit. Top 10 Foods to Eat Fruits Vegetables Nuts Seeds Lean meats, like skinless chicken and lean pork Fish and seafood, like salmon, cod, and crab Vegetable oils, like avocado oil and olive oil Beans and legumes Herbs and spices Low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt Top 10 Foods to Limit or Avoid Table salt High-sodium condiments, like mustard, ketchup, and bottled salad dressings Packaged chips and crackers High-sodium frozen meals High-sodium canned soups High-sodium canned vegetables Cured meats, like bacon, deli turkey, and sausage Cheese Gravy Electrolyte drinks  	   
 Low-Sodium Diet Shopping List  	  Here are the foods every low-sodium diet beginner should plan their grocery list around, registered dietitian-nutritionists say:Proteins Chicken breastLean pork loinSalmonTofuLean ground turkeyProduceBananasOrangesLeafy greensTomatoesPotatoesGrainsOatsBarleyBrown riceWhole-wheat breadCorn tortillasEggs and DairyEggsLow-fat or fat-free milkLow-fat or fat-free yogurtLow-fat, no-salt-added cottage cheeseLow-fat or fat-free kefirCondimentsOlive oilVinegars No-salt seasoningsSpicesHerbsSweeteners All are okay in moderation  	   
 A 7-Day Low-Sodium Diet Sample Menu  	  Sample Menu  	  You may have to get creative with different flavor combinations on a low-sodium diet, since the lack of salt may make the food taste bland until your taste buds adjust to less sodium. Here’s a sample menu from Teresa Balog, RD, a food service dietitian in Austin, Texas.  	   
 Getting Started With a Low-Sodium Diet: 4 Beginner Tips  	  Getting Started  	  If you’re new to a low-sodium diet, all the cooking and label-reading can feel overwhelming. Here are some beginner tips from experts. Gradually reduce sodium. It takes time for your taste buds to adjust to a low-sodium diet, since salt enhances a food’s flavor. Vuppuluri recommends starting slow and not expecting to cut your sodium intake down to 2,300 or 1,500 mg immediately. Reduce your intake over a couple of weeks to give your taste buds time to acclimate. Try grilling. Grilling adds a depth of flavor to food, which can make up for some of what’s lacking when you take out salt. Balog recommends learning to grill meats and vegetables if you’re on a low-sodium diet to make things a bit more interesting. Lean on herbs and spices. Herbs, spices, and salt-free seasonings are your best friend, Balog says, since they add extra flavor without any salt. Acids like vinegar and lemon juice can do the same, just be careful not to overdo it or you’ll end up with a strong sour flavor. Keep it simple when eating out. Restaurant foods typically have high amounts of sodium.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762970032f70-2a47-4a40-adc4-4c9f07a9a1c6 When in doubt, go with broiled or grilled entrees and steamed vegetables, Balog says. Since these items are typically made to order, it’s possible to order them with no salt added. Other items — like braised meats, sauces, salad dressings, and roasted vegetables — are typically cooked or partially cooked ahead of time, so the salt has already been added and can’t be taken out, Balog explains. The Takeaway Following a low-sodium diet means limiting your sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day and, in some cases, 1,500 milligrams per day. Low-sodium diets like Mediterranean and DASH emphasize unprocessed or minimally processed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. A low-sodium diet can lower blood pressure, support heart health, and help manage liver and kidney disease.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[olive oil olives salmon filets nuts legumes and whole grains assorted fruits and vegetables]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/obesity/guide/bariatric-surgery/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/obesity/guide/bariatric-surgery/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Weight Management]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[A Complete Guide to Bariatric Surgery]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:25:23 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Learn who makes a good weight loss surgery candidate, what happens during the surgery, and what life is like after the procedure.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[How It Works  	  Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, refers to any surgical procedure for weight loss for people with obesity. All forms of bariatric surgery alter your digestive system, typically by modifying the stomach, to help you lose weight. This surgery can also provide other benefits, such as a reduced risk of diseases including type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. While bariatric surgery is often an effective way to lose weight, it does come with risks. And it does require you to make permanent changes to your lifestyle to stay healthy and keep the weight off. Here, discover what you need to know about bariatric surgery, as well as who might be a good candidate for these procedures.  	   
 Why Would You Need Bariatric Surgery?  	  Who Is a Candidate  	  People undergo bariatric surgery primarily to lose weight and improve obesity-related diseases if they have obesity. Doctors will consider bariatric surgery if other weight loss methods have not worked and the person’s overall health is at risk.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e7d73ece-6d0e-424e-9e6a-3103ac515e58 Among the selection criteria used to determine who is a candidate for bariatric surgery is body mass index (BMI) , the calculation of a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, doctors should consider bariatric surgery for:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762910157626-8584-4236-af98-880fe7a30d3d People with a BMI of 35 or higher Adults who have a BMI between 30 and 34.9 and a metabolic disease, such as diabetes “Appropriately selected” children and adolescents Doctors should also consider Asian people for bariatric surgery if their BMI is above 27.5. When deciding whether or not someone should have bariatric surgery, doctors will also take into account various risk factors to ensure that it’s a safe option. “We don’t want to do surgery if it’s not going to be safe for the patient,” says Ellen Morrow, MD , an assistant professor and surgeon at the University of Utah Health, who is certified in bariatric surgery. These risk factors include smoking, substance use, and how well the patient is managing any mental health conditions they have.  	   
 Potential Benefits of Bariatric Surgery  	  Benefits  	  If someone qualifies for the surgery, here are the potential benefits that may come with it. Weight Loss With bariatric surgery, weight loss is often dramatic. Around 90 percent of people lose half their excess body weight after bariatric surgery. If you have overweight or obesity, your excess body weight is the difference between your current body weight and ideal body weight.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629313a107c-0e9a-4ecb-b5a5-c01b7bbf25fe While there is always a possibility of gaining back some weight, people who closely follow the special diet and other recommendations tend to have high rates of success keeping the weight off after surgery. A 2021 study found that five years after bariatric surgery, there was “significant weight loss durability,” meaning that a significant amount of weight stayed off.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e5ec3283-d7b6-4baa-977d-207a9bfe6867 “So it is the most effective option if you’re looking at the weight loss outcomes,” says Morrow, “but there are definitely other benefits.” Improvement to Obesity-Related Health Conditions People with obesity have a heightened risk of serious diseases and conditions compared with people with a healthy weight. But if a person loses weight through bariatric surgery, many of these health problems can be improved.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ff3893d9-9593-4ad3-ac0a-2f56d84046e1 “Even with a 10 percent body weight loss, we know that people will see a significant improvement in their health and weight-related medical problems,” says Morrow. Those benefits can be even more dramatic with a higher amount of weight loss. “So especially with a 30 percent total body weight loss, you really can see remission of some weight-related medical problems, like diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol,” says Morrow. Here is a full list of diseases that may improve after bariatric surgery:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298c16f32d-015e-48c0-9b2e-a662feecf764 Type 2 diabetes High blood pressure Heart disease Unhealthy cholesterol levels Sleep apnea Urinary incontinence Knee, hip, or other body pain “I have worked with numerous patients with diabetes who have been able to discontinue their insulin or decrease their hypertensive medications,” says Kristen Smith, RD , a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and a bariatric program manager at Piedmont Healthcare in Atlanta. “It’s incredible to witness the improvement in lifestyle that many patients experience after bariatric surgery. Many patients are doing activities they haven’t been able to do for years, such as riding a roller coaster, flying on an airplane easier, or completing a 5K.” Pain Reduction If someone has obesity, chances are they may have pain in areas like their knees or hips. Obesity may damage the soft tissue of the joints, which can lead to osteoarthritis , a condition where joints become inflamed.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292516954b-6238-4bf4-8cbc-5e0810efd305 Bariatric surgery might help. In a 2022 study, researchers questioned almost 1,500 people (a majority of them women) about their pain before and after undergoing two common types of bariatric surgery.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629953a9434-9d8a-446d-9efc-364ad42ab44f The study followed up as long as seven years later and found that 41 to 64 percent of participants noted an improvement in their pain and physical function, as well as their ability to walk. Longer Life People with severe obesity who get bariatric surgery may be able to extend their lifespan, according to the NIH. The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery suggests that these procedures can reduce a patient’s risk of premature death by up to 50 percent.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291baed640-051c-4a81-83f8-84e0d8afc2e1 One study from 2023 found that people who had bariatric surgery had 16 percent lower odds of all causes of death compared with the groups who did not receive the surgery.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629748e6da0-31d4-4d0f-b5ae-b8a9824991f4  	   
 Types of Bariatric Surgery and How Each Works  	  Types  	  There are three main types of bariatric surgery that doctors currently perform. A fourth type — adjustable gastric band — is an older and more outdated procedure that has fallen out of favor due to the development of more effective techniques.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ddc10056-5caa-42f5-b851-c05432d2bcba Each surgery has pros and cons. There are different average weight loss results and potential side effects or risks, says Morrow. “In general, it seems like the risk of a procedure sort of parallels the benefits,” she adds. A sleeve gastrectomy, for example, may have a little bit less risk in some ways but results in a little bit less weight loss, while a duodenal switch has been shown to have potentially more long-term complications but also has the biggest weight loss results. If you’re considering bariatric surgery, you’ll want to go over each with your doctor to determine which of these three types is the best option for you. Sleeve Gastrectomy This option is the most popular kind of bariatric surgery. “Sleeve gastrectomy is currently the most commonly performed procedure nationwide,” says Morrow. The procedure involves removing 80 percent of the stomach. What remains is a stomach that’s about the size and shape of a banana.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762901fe1ae0-5806-465c-9b0b-120e66d68aec In general, bariatric procedures work in one of two ways — or sometimes both, explains Morrow. “The first way is with restriction. All bariatric procedures have altered the stomach to try and make people have a smaller stomach and feel more full," says Morrow. “A sleeve gastrectomy works purely through restriction, so we’re creating a smaller stomach by removing about two-thirds of the stomach, so conceptually it’s pretty simple.” A sleeve gastrectomy is the simplest of the procedures and doesn’t require as much time on the operating table. “It takes approximately an hour to perform,” says Morrow. Excess weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy can be anywhere between 30 and 80 percent.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629739d2c5b-c45e-4ed4-b3b3-3e0ca5f48607 Gastric Bypass A Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is also known simply as a gastric bypass. "Roux-en-Y" is French for “in the form of a Y.” Like sleeve gastrectomy, this procedure is a common choice in the United States. “I personally and my colleagues here at the University of Utah perform Roux-en-Y gastric bypass the most, which is kind of considered the gold standard,” says Morrow. In this procedure, the surgeon separates the stomach into a top and bottom section. The top section — also called a pouch — is roughly the size of an egg and the bottom section no longer digests food. The surgeon then connects a part of the small intestine called the Roux limb to the new stomach pouch. “The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass works through malabsorption, so for this procedure, there is some intestinal rearrangement as well to basically alter your body’s hormonal response to food, which is important,” says Morrow. Malabsorption is where the body is unable to absorb nutrients from food properly. For a healthy person, malabsorption isn’t something that’s desirable, but in terms of bariatric surgery, it can be a benefit for weight loss, adds Morrow. Limiting the digestion and absorption of nutrients reduces your calorie intake, allowing for weight loss. Because your body absorbs fewer vitamins and trace nutrients, it’s particularly important to follow the recommended diet after surgery to prevent unwanted side effects. The surgery takes 90 minutes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bb8c5feb-f0b0-4698-b779-40d909b931f3 After this surgery, average weight loss is about 70 percent of excess body weight.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762930da60e0-0afa-4bd0-a8fd-a677776ae177 Duodenal Switch Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch is often referred to as simply a duodenal switch. “A duodenal switch involves a bit more malabsorption [compared with the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass],” says Morrow. The surgery has two key steps. The first is to perform a sleeve gastrectomy, so about 20 percent of the stomach remains.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629eb4bdacd-2a8b-4f6b-ad29-ba58fcf5ade1 The second step is to connect the end of the intestine to the duodenum, a tiny portion of the small intestine that connects to the stomach. This bypasses far more of the intestine than a gastric bypass. The result is that you’re unable to eat as much and or absorb as many nutrients. This surgery can lead to more significant weight loss with patients losing around 80 percent of excess weight after this surgery, and it’s especially effective for patients with type 2 diabetes. But it comes with greater risks than other options, like malnutrition.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629463e1ad2-8e96-495b-a020-e0974503e023 Duodenal switches also take around 90 minutes to 3 hours to perform, which is longer than other options.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762951bc8d07-c6ee-4043-91be-213d3ccac04d While a specific diet is crucial for everyone who undergoes bariatric surgery, for people who have a duodenal switch, following eating guidelines closely is absolutely necessary. “They have to be really careful about eating enough protein, or else they can become protein deficient, and drinking enough water, so they don’t get dehydrated, and they have to take vitamins every day, often more than once a day depending on which vitamin supplements they choose,” says Morrow.  	   
 How to Prepare for Bariatric Surgery  	  How to Prep  	  In the months leading up to bariatric surgery, your healthcare team will create a specific plan that will require making some lifestyle changes. “I always tell patients, the more lifestyle changes you can make prior to surgery, the easier the transition after surgery will be,” says Smith. Here’s what a pre–bariatric surgery plan may look like. 1. Meet With Your Surgeon Your surgeon will also likely meet with you to go over the procedure, review your medical history, and answer questions. “In our program, the surgeons meet with the patients twice before surgery. That’s not true everywhere, but they should probably meet with their surgeon at least once,” says Morrow. 2. Get a Psychological Evaluation Bariatric surgery calls for permanent dietary changes, making it a significant life change. As a result, it’s important that a patient meet with a psychologist to make sure any conditions are treated or stabilized. 3. Meet Frequently With a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist A lot of education around how to eat after surgery needs to happen ahead of time. “It’s important for patients to learn about how they’re going to be able to eat with their new stomach, as well as what high-quality, nutritious foods we should all be focusing on,” says Morrow. “There is a possibility for weight regain even after these procedures, so we want patients to understand that choosing high-quality food is going to be really important for them to maintain their weight loss in the long run,” she adds. You’ll also likely discuss healthy eating strategies. “Patients are encouraged to practice mindful eating habits by listening to hunger cues, chewing their food adequately, and not eating in a distracting setting,” says Smith. Many insurers will require a patient to undergo three to six months of medically supervised weight loss before bariatric surgery. “As a surgeon, the way I view it is that it’s our opportunity to provide education to the patient during that time period,” says Morrow. 4. Get Screened for Sleep Apnea “We also like to screen all our patients for sleep apnea because it’s important that it gets treated before surgery if they do have it, since it’s pretty common among obese people,” says Morrow. One of the major risk factors for sleep apnea is obesity. Sleep apnea is a condition in which you stop breathing many times throughout the night. Breathing devices like continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machines can help treat the condition.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762927be1c68-f392-4917-86b7-2128345a5f8b 5. Quit Smoking If you smoke, you’ll need to quit well before bariatric surgery. “We would prefer that the patient has not been smoking within the past six months or a year, depending on which procedure they’re considering,” says Morrow. Smoking is harmful for a number of reasons. “Smoking is going to increase the risk greatly of any major surgical procedure,” she explains. “It increases the risk for having [complications with] general anesthesia, it decreases your body’s ability to heal, and there are also some specific issues when it comes to bariatric surgery with regard to ulcer risk, particularly if someone is considering a gastric bypass.” A 2022 study also found that smoking increased the risk of postoperative wound complications.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762965f89a36-d54b-420a-b70a-003c74f7f2ac  	   
 What to Expect During Bariatric Surgery  	  On the day of surgery, patients can expect to receive general anesthesia. The surgery will take anywhere from an hour to a couple of hours, depending on the type of bariatric surgery the surgeon is performing. Most operations are laparoscopic procedures, which means the surgeon inserts a small instrument with a camera through a tiny cut in the abdomen. This technique can speed up recovery time compared with surgeries that require larger incisions.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299d8fc98a-3ab9-44ea-b2bd-988f883dbb0b Once the surgery is complete, you’ll wake in a recovery room. The staff will monitor you for complications, and you’ll likely need to stay a few nights in the hospital. You may be walking the day of the surgery and sipping fluids while you’re still in the hospital.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762932864c47-9941-4e10-a97b-6d0bcbf573e6 “All our patients are encouraged to get out of bed and walk within two hours of the surgery,” says Smith.  	   
 What Are the General Risks and Side Effects of Bariatric Surgery?  	  Side Effects  	  Risks and side effects can be minor or something you’ll need to see your doctor for. Here are some of the potential side effects and complications of bariatric surgery. Side Effects There are several mild side effects that can occur after bariatric surgery, while rarer side effects can have a bigger impact on a patient’s quality of life and health. Potential side effects that can occur with bariatric surgery include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762903b066a5-2d11-46d1-a338-42c41a8ae01b Bowel obstruction Dumping syndrome, where food moves into the small intestine too quickly, causing diarrhea and abdominal pain Gallstones Hernia Low blood sugar Malnutrition Ulcers Vomiting Acid reflux Some people may need to have a second surgery or procedure. Complications While very uncommon, certain complications do come up after bariatric surgery. “There are some significant complications that can happen that we worry about as surgeons, which are, fortunately, pretty rare,” says Morrow. “The rate of those more serious complications — blood clots and leaks — is around 1 percent.” Signs of concern in a recovering patient include an abnormal heart rate, fever, and an unusual amount of pain, says Morrow. Rare complications that can occur include: Excessive bleeding Infection Problems relating to anesthesia Blood clots Leaks in your gut Death  	   
 General Care After Bariatric Surgery  	  Post-Op Care  	  Receiving proper care after bariatric surgery is essential because of how it alters your gastrointestinal system. You’ll need to follow a special diet for life and be monitored by medical professionals each year. Here is what care looks like after bariatric surgery. Follow Specific Eating Guidelines To prevent malnutrition or weight gain after bariatric surgery, you’ll need to follow a healthy way of eating and meet regularly with a registered dietitian. “Hopefully patients meet with a dietitian regularly for at least the first year, and then we ask our patients to return annually after that,” says Morrow. In the first month, the post-surgery diet requires a certain strategy. “I often refer to it as similar to feeding a baby,” says Smith. The diet progression starts with liquids, moves on to pureed food, and eventually reaches solid meals. The diet may vary depending on the doctor or dietitian, says Morrow, but some of the main recommendations include: Avoid soda. Eat 60 to 100 grams of protein a day. Drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day. Eat frequent small meals. Emphasize protein-rich foods. Minimize refined carbohydrates. Avoid food and drinks with refined sugars. The healthfulness and quality of the foods you consume are also key. “Lean protein is definitely emphasized. Vegetables and dietary fiber should also be emphasized,” says Morrow. In addition to helping you stick to a specific eating plan, a nutritionist may offer straightforward strategies for following the diet, such as meal planning. Meet With Your Doctor In addition to meeting with your dietitian regularly, you’ll meet with a medical or surgical provider regularly. “I’m sure this varies based on where you have surgery, but in our program, we alternate between the surgeons and our physician assistants in terms of who is following up, because they are pretty frequent follow-up visits in the first year while patients are rapidly losing weight,” says Morrow. After the first year, it typically becomes an annual visit, unless your doctor requests that you come more often. Take Supplements After bariatric surgery, you need to take supplements for life to prevent serious diseases that can come with vitamin and mineral deficiencies.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629605a571b-0ce1-482d-b687-fae49a8a37ab These supplements typically include: A multivitamin Vitamin B12 Calcium Vitamin D Iron Seek Mental Health Help if Needed A lot of changes occur after bariatric surgery, and while scheduled appointments with a mental health professional are not part of the after care, they could be helpful for some. Research suggests that it is common for people to use mental health services after bariatric surgery, with one study reporting that 1 in 6 people using a mental health service afterward.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295ecce358-8f3a-42bd-aba0-6300dfd25804 So, be sure to raise any mental health concerns with your doctor if any come up.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Bariatric surgery is an effective way to lose weight for people with obesity when other treatment options have not worked. Each type of weight loss surgery comes with potential benefits and risks and side effects, and requires a long-term commitment to making diet and other changes. “It’s imperative that patients understand the lifelong commitment to a healthier lifestyle,” Smith says. “Despite what the general public may believe, bariatric surgery is not the easy route for weight loss.”  	   
 Q & A's  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/how-is-weight-loss-different-for-people-who-take-newer-obesity-drugs/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/how-is-weight-loss-different-for-people-who-take-newer-obesity-drugs/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Weight Management]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[How Is Weight Loss Different for People Who Take Newer Obesity Drugs?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Explore the findings from an Everyday Health survey on weight loss medications like tirzepatide, semaglutide, and liraglutide. Learn about their effectiveness, the side effects, and public perception.]]></description>
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            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Using medication to lose weight is nothing new, but drugs making headlines these days are in a league of their own. New data from an Everyday Health survey bears that out. Respondents who tried popular drugs that can lead to weight loss — including tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), and liraglutide (Saxenda) — cited them as the best way to lose weight. Those who used them were more likely to lose weight and to lose more than 20 pounds. The findings come from Everyday Health’s recent survey of more than 3,000 American adults. All the people who took part had attempted to lose weight at some point during the preceding six months. The survey respondents answered questions about their approaches to weight loss. They shared what worked and what didn’t, their motivations for losing weight, and information about other aspects of their weight loss journey. RELATED: Everyday Health's Survey and Special Report: Weight Loss Reframed Here are some of the top-line survey findings about the weight loss medications. Key Finding 1: Most Users Believe That Weight Loss Medications Work While a smaller percentage of survey respondents had tried prescription weight loss drugs , those who did rated them as highly effective. Nine percent of survey respondents had used prescription weight loss drugs Ozempic or Mounjaro, while 4% had used Wegovy or Saxenda. Roughly 3 out of 4 people who used these medicines named them the most effective weight loss tactic. Experts say that this mirrors their own perception of the drugs. “In our field, I would say they’re revolutionary because they’re functioning so well,” says Kong Chen, PhD , a senior investigator in the metabolic clinical research unit at the National Institutes of Health who is based in Bethesda, Maryland. Other experts agree. “Although often there is enthusiasm for new treatments, there are some that have certainly lived up to their expectations, and the GLP-1 medications are one of them,” says Robert Gabbay, MD, PhD , an associate professor of medicine at the Harvard-affiliated Joslin Diabetes Center and the chief scientific and medical officer for the American Diabetes Association who is based in Boston. The term “GLP-1” refers to glucagon-like peptide 1, which is a hormone released in the gut and brainstem after someone eats. These GLP-1 medications — which include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound — mimic the action of the body’s GLP-1 hormone, per the Mayo Clinic . The latter two drugs also act upon the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide hormone. These effects can support weight loss, research notes. Key Finding 2: Most Respondents Understand That These Drugs Suppress Appetite The new weight loss medications were originally intended to change how the body releases insulin in response to eating, per research , but experts now believe that these drugs do their most important work in the brain. “They appear to work directly on the higher cortical centers that regulate food intake,” says Fatima Cody Stanford, MD , an obesity medicine physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston. This leads to a drop in appetite. In our survey, among those interested in trying the drugs if prescribed, 76 percent said they were aware that these drugs worked by suppressing appetite. Ultimately, these drugs promote weight loss in several ways. “[These new drugs] slow down the emptying of the stomach, and as a result, people are more full and eat less,” Dr. Gabbay says. “In addition, they appear to have some impact on centers in the brain responsible for appetite.” While it’s possible that the drugs also increase a person’s metabolism and energy expenditure, Dr. Chen says that doesn’t seem to be the case. Key Finding 3: Many People Aren’t Interested in Trying These Medications Roughly 93 million Americans — 38 percent of the country’s adult population — are candidates for these drugs based on the criteria used in recent study trials . And reports from firms that track the sale of medical weight loss drugs say that demand has soared. Throughout the past year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reported shortages of these medications due to immense demand. Some experts speculate that several factors including celebrity and social media endorsements may have contributed to these shortages, as Harvard Health Publishing notes. Despite those statistics, less than half of survey respondents said they were interested in trying the new weight loss medications. Even if a doctor prescribed these drugs to them, only about 1 in 3 respondents said they’d be willing to take these drugs.   	   
 When asked about their concerns, survey respondents were most likely to say that they worried about regaining weight when going off these drugs. Experts say that this is a valid concern. “Given that obesity is a chronic disease, it often requires chronic treatment,” Gabbay says. These drugs stop working when a person stops taking them, he adds, so people who want to keep the weight off would likely have to stay on them for the rest of their life. Key Finding 4: People Are Worried About Side Effects From weight loss pills and powders to stimulants and lipase inhibitors, weight loss drugs of the past showed modest benefits yet severe side effects, research suggests. The newer drugs are more effective for weight loss, but they also come with side effects that survey respondents expressed worry over. Many respondents (44 percent) mentioned gastrointestinal (GI) issues as their leading concern. Some also highlighted the potential for long-term side effects of these weight loss drugs . Here again, experts say that these concerns are valid. Semaglutide, which is taken orally (Rybelsus) or injected (Ozempic, Wegovy), can cause a number of GI symptoms (bloating, constipation, and vomiting) as well as flu-like symptoms (chills and headache), skin rashes, and a host of other side effects, per the Mayo Clinic . Many of these same side effects, particularly the GI issues, are relatively common among people on tirzepatide, too. Chen mentions some reports, including a research letter, that many people who take these drugs have increased risks for bowel obstructions, inflammation, and other GI side effects. He also says that because these drugs are so new, researchers don’t yet have a good grasp of their long-term effects. “With any drug, there are going to be side effects, and so patients and their doctors need to weigh the risks against the benefits,” he says. Other experts agree. “When choosing if these medications are right for you, it's critical to work with an experienced obesity medicine specialist to fully understand the pros and the cons,” says Sean Hashmi, MD , a lifestyle and obesity specialist at Kaiser Permanente and a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and Everyday Health’s Health Expert Network in Woodland Hills, California. Working with a primary care physician who is familiar with the drugs is another option if you do not have access to an obesity medicine specialist. Key Finding 5: The Drugs Were a Difference Maker for People Who Lost Weight Survey respondents tried a number of tactics to lose weight . There was often a lot of overlap among people who lost weight versus those who maintained or gained weight. For example, 73 percent of people who lost weight had attempted to consume fewer indulgent or high-calorie foods and drinks. Meanwhile, 67 percent of people who maintained or gained weight had tried the same tactic. But when it came to weight loss drugs, people who lost weight were twice as likely to have tried these medications than people who maintained or gained weight. In fact, one of the clearest differences between people who lost weight and those who did not was that the people who lost weight were more likely to have tried these medications. Semaglutide, which has been around for several years now, has been the focus of more than a dozen weight loss clinical trials. A review found that, according to some of the most recent trials, more than 86 percent of people on semaglutide lost 5 percent or more of their body weight. While there haven’t been as many formal studies on tirzepatide, which is a newer drug, studies have found that patients lost between 8 and 12 percent of their body weight (depending on dose). That’s according to a meta-analysis , a type of research that combines results from two or more studies to identify trends . “It’s not just hype,” Dr. Stanford says. “Patients on these medications tell me they don’t even have to think about eating less.” Everyday Health's Weight Loss Reframed Survey queried 3,144 Americans nationwide ages 18 and older who had tried losing weight in the past six months. The study was fielded between July 10 and August 18, 2023, across demographic groups, genders, and health conditions. Survey recruitment took place via an online portal, in app, and via email. The margin of error for the sample size of 3,144 is +/-1.7 percent at a 95 percent confidence level.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[newer weight loss obesity medications]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/yeast-infection/are-medications-causing-yeast-infections/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/yeast-infection/are-medications-causing-yeast-infections/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Women&#39;s Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Are Your Medications Causing Yeast Infections?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[See a list of medications that cause yeast infections, and how to treat and prevent them.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[As anyone who’s ever had a yeast infection can attest, they’re an experience that’s best avoided. Also known as vaginal candidiasis, an overgrowth of yeast is their most common cause — typically Candida albicans. Yeast infections cause irritation, discharge, and persistent itchiness of the vagina and vulva.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629055ed2b3-653d-4ead-a013-6bb6b2d3af3a They can be caused by not changing out of a wet bathing suit or by wearing scented tampons. Certain types of prescription medications may also trigger a yeast infection.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297e61a582-dd8d-4900-bc1c-fcf8a26bd908 “Medications have the potential to alter the vaginal pH and microbiome, causing an imbalance which may lead to a yeast infection,” says Rani Ramaswamy, MD , a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist in Carmel, Indiana. “Typically we see this with antibiotics or steroids, but each person is unique and may experience different side effects from certain medications.” If you’re prone to yeast infections, talk to your healthcare provider to see if it’s necessary that you take any of the medications below or if other treatment options might suit you.   	   
 Antibiotics  	  Antibiotics  	  Prescription antibiotics are very effective at treating a sinus infection , strep throat , or other bacterial infections . But in their quest to rid your body of the bacteria making you sick, they can also put you at risk of developing a yeast infection. “The purpose of antibiotics is to kill bacteria, so when you take them for an infection, it can also kill the good bacteria in the vagina,” says Jennifer Griffin, NP , a women’s health practitioner and certified nurse midwife at Stony Brook Medicine in Lake Grove, New York. “This can cause an overgrowth of yeast in some patients.” Even if you suspect your antibiotic has caused a yeast infection, experts advise that you complete the entire treatment course of antibiotics to lower your risk of antibiotic resistance .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629829915a4-0d9a-496a-9b2b-860f0492ee10  	   
 Steroids  	  Steroids  	  Corticosteroids — which people may take for all kinds of health conditions including allergies , autoimmune disorders , and skin conditions — increase your odds of developing a yeast infection in two ways. “Steroids can directly increase a patient’s blood glucose levels,” says Griffin. “When blood glucose levels are elevated, we can see an overgrowth of candida.” The higher the dose and the longer you use them, the greater the risk that antibiotics pose. But even low-dose topical steroid creams may lower the body’s natural immune defenses and make yeast infections more likely.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f2f0c78d-59d8-4fe1-8db3-9675321b9720  	   
 Hormonal Contraceptives  	  Hormonal Contraceptives  	  Birth control pills, the patch, and vaginal rings may lead to yeast infections because they increase estrogen levels in the body.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ee6ce179-60b3-4056-89ce-ee4f57e72439 “Hormonal contraception — and HRT — does not directly cause a yeast infection, but it can increase the risk of getting one if it contains higher levels of estrogen,” says Griffin. “Estrogen can make it more difficult for the vaginal flora to fight off yeast.” Other contraceptive devices, like vaginal sponges, diaphragms, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) may also increase the risk. e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ee6ce179-60b3-4056-89ce-ee4f57e72439   	   
 Immunosuppressants  	  Immunosuppressants  	  Yeast infections are more common in people with weakened immune systems and those who take medications to suppress their immune system.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629faa18218-536d-4cd2-8f81-cfef62f6e346 “Patients on immunosuppressants like chemotherapy, or medications taken following transplant surgery, are considered to be at a higher risk of developing yeast infections,” says Griffin. “These medications weaken their immune system and the ability to fight off infections.”  	   
 Diabetes Medications  	  Diabetes Medications  	  A certain category of diabetes drugs, SGLT-2 inhibitors, cause yeast infections because they encourage your body to get rid of excess glucose through your urine, potentially feeding the growth of yeast. These medications include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762923f286fd-6ea4-4a04-8539-dafb2a9cb737 dapagliflozin (Farxiga) canagliflozin (Invokana) empagliflozin (Jardiance) Dr. Ramaswamy adds that an increase in your A1C level may be what causes a yeast infection — and not the diabetes medication itself. “In women with recurrent yeast infections, we commonly test for diabetes, as this is a risk factor,” she says.  	   
 Ways to Minimize Yeast Infection Risk  	  Ways to Minimize Risk  	  It’s not possible to completely eliminate the possibility of yeast infections, but there are ways you can lower the risk:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f886f949-627e-4c34-b4de-d57139ff4761 Avoid douching, which can kill the healthy bacteria that control fungus. Don’t use vaginal deodorants or scented period products. Change out of wet bathing suits or gym clothes as soon as possible. Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes. Use water-based sexual lubricants. Keep your blood sugar levels in a normal range.  	   
 Treatment Options  	  Treatment Options  	  Yeast infections can be treated with antifungal medications available both over the counter and by prescription. Antifungal medications are available in different forms, such as topical creams, oral gels, or pills.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b19fef6d-2afa-474f-955e-821c6e28c834 The type of antifungal, the dose, and the duration of treatment will depend on the severity of someones’ infection and their health status. Treatment options include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629cc8b5504-ce05-4d7d-8239-c1ced1bde806 fluconazole (Diflucan) miconazole (Monistat) terconazole (Terazol 7) Boric acid Griffin says that if symptoms don’t improve within a few days after you start an OTC treatment, you should see a medical professional. “Evaluation with an exam and lab tests may need to be done to make sure there isn’t a different type of infection or a coinfection that needs to be treated,” she says.  	   
 Complementary Approaches  	  Complementary Approaches  	  According to the National Library of Medicine, some women treat yeast infections by inserting garlic cloves, yogurt, or tampons soaked in tea tree oil into their vagina. But there is a lack of research on the effectiveness of these treatments, and there’s a chance they could cause allergic reactions or irritated mucus membranes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629af1e0ac9-6286-41e1-ac19-a0dbddba3cfb “There’s no good evidence to support vaginal yogurt, but I do recommend eating yogurt for good gut health,” says Griffin. “Candida lives in both the gastrointestinal tract and the vagina.” The Takeaway Certain medications, including antibiotics, steroids, hormonal contraception, diabetes medications, and immunosuppressants, can increase the risk of yeast infections. If you’re prone to yeast infections and take medications that increase the risk, speak to your doctor about alternative treatments. You can lower your risk of yeast infections by avoiding scented vaginal products, changing out of wet bathing suits or gym clothes, and wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes.  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/should-you-worry-about-human-metapneumovirus-hmpv/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/should-you-worry-about-human-metapneumovirus-hmpv/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Infectious Diseases]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Should You Be Worried About Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 21:40:05 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[HMPV may sound like it has pandemic potential, but experts say it’s a familiar respiratory virus that generally only causes mild cold-like symptoms. ]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[A sharp increase in respiratory viral infections in China — especially from human metapneumovirus (HMPV) — has public health officials in the United States on the alert.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629244a7cde-346c-44df-a162-826e8821dc78 This spike in HMPV-related illness, however, is not unusual for this time of year, and authorities are urging people not to worry that this is the first sign of a potential pandemic. “The CDC is in regular contact with international partners and monitoring reports of increased disease,” says Belsie González, MPH, a spokesperson for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Recent reports of increased HMPV activity in China are not currently a cause for concern in the U.S., though some transmission of HMPV can be expected throughout the year in the U.S., especially during the winter respiratory virus season.” While some people with HMPV need to be hospitalized for bronchitis or pneumonia , most experience mild upper respiratory symptoms similar to the common cold and recover after a few days.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762932849f4d-905f-4c0f-9ab5-a129b1de195a What Is HMPV and Why Isn’t It More Well Known? In the same family of viruses as RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), HMPV is a common respiratory virus that is most active in winter through to spring.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762950476867-be12-4b73-a439-1264962f8515 Although first detected in 2001, HMPV may have been circulating since at least the 1950s, according to tests of archived blood samples.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762918aebbd0-359b-401f-87d3-1e33c7818af0e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b65d68ee-0664-48c8-9ec9-13f895fe6e86 Despite being widespread in many countries, the virus doesn’t get the same level of attention as RSV, COVID-19 , or the flu because its symptoms are often mild and difficult to distinguish from a common cold.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762963d61900-4efe-4eb8-9ba7-7a09d40536db “You don’t hear about HMPV as much because we don’t often test for it, because it doesn’t send a lot of people to the hospital,” says Panagis Galiatsatos, MD , a pulmonary and critical care physician with Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore and a volunteer medical spokesperson for the American Lung Association. “We will screen for viruses that are very common to send you to the hospital. The only times I even request a screening for HMPV are in my ICU patients who are immunosuppressed, and I have to figure out what is causing lingering respiratory problems.” Even with a relatively low level of testing for HMPV, the CDC notes that only 1.4 percent of recent diagnostic tests have been coming back positive.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293574f591-6be1-4888-8819-4a2f48485c02 HMPV Is Like a Bad Cold, With Cough as Top Symptom “HMPV feels like a cold to most people,” says Peter Chin-Hong, MD , an infectious disease specialist and a professor of medicine at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine. “It resembles RSV most closely clinically, and predominantly causes only respiratory symptoms.” Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c30ef73b-a640-4c61-bae4-11f77f7df434 Cough Fever Congestion Shortness of breath “The big one is cough,” says Dr. Galiatsatos. “I’ve never met a patient where it wasn’t the leading symptom.” When HMPV progresses to a more severe infection, wheezing becomes a prominent symptom, indicating inflammation and narrowing of the airways.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d6e599fd-1ec7-4d33-a7a7-ac0dd4a056c8 Anyone can get HMPV, but the people most at risk of complications are newborns, children under 5, seniors age 65 and older, individuals with asthma who take steroids, COPD patients, and the immunocompromised, such as those who take cancer medications or have had organ transplants.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762931ed1aae-1220-4b73-ba7d-e3210210dc5e How to Treat HMPV Unlike the flu or COVID-19, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for HMPV. Most people will recover on their own after a few days with basic supportive care. Here's how to relieve symptoms:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762990b78f65-1c0f-407c-bd0c-81f6f0a3d9fa Take pain or fever medications Use a room humidifier or take a hot shower to ease a sore throat and cough. Drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated. Stay home and rest. Preventing Spread and Protecting Yourself HMPV is a highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets, close contact, or contaminated surfaces. As with other respiratory viruses, the CDC advises taking the following precautions to help stop the transmission of illness: Avoid close contact with sick people. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face (especially mouth, nose, and eyes). Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Disinfect objects and surfaces regularly (such as doorknobs, countertops, and light switches). Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces. Stay Calm and Carry On China’s reported levels of acute respiratory infections, including HMPV, are within the expected range for the winter season, with no unusual outbreak patterns reported.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291cfe0fcf-4fea-45b9-830b-53c4eccab76a With this in mind, Dr. Chin-Hong is urging people to take precautions against respiratory illness, but not to be overly concerned about HMPV becoming a pandemic situation like COVID-19. “HMPV cases in the U.S. have had a predictable increase since November, but the numbers of cases pale in comparison to the ‘big three’ of influenza, RSV, and COVID,” he says. “The situation is not as worrisome as with COVID because our immune cells are experienced with this pathogen, most cases are mild, and our scientific knowledge base about HMPV is much more robust than when COVID first emerged.”  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/ulcerative-colitis/treatment/need-to-know-nutrients-for-ulcerative-colitis/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/ulcerative-colitis/treatment/need-to-know-nutrients-for-ulcerative-colitis/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Digestive Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[6 Need-to-Know Vitamins and Minerals for Ulcerative Colitis]]></title>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 21:33:14 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[People with ulcerative colitis (UC) may have a hard time getting the vitamins and minerals they need. Find out what nutrient deficiencies can come with UC and how to correct them.]]></description>
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            <content:encoded><![CDATA[When you have ulcerative colitis (UC) , intestinal inflammation and common UC symptoms may mean you aren’t getting enough of the nutrients your body needs. Problems with how your body absorbs nutrients, as well as blood loss, diarrhea, and even some of the drugs used to treat this inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can all increase the risk of nutritional deficiency. Maintaining healthy levels of essential nutrients is possible with proper nutrition and supplementation. Here are six of the most common nutritional deficiencies associated with ulcerative colitis , and what you can do about them.  	   
 1. Calcium and Vitamin D Keep Bones Strong Kristi L. King, MPH, RD , a senior pediatric dietitian at Texas Children's Hospital and a clinical instructor at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, says that low stores of calcium and vitamin D are the main vitamin and mineral deficiencies in patients with ulcerative colitis . When you have this condition, "the intestines and colon don’t absorb nutrients in the same way they do for someone without the disease," she notes, adding that many drugs commonly prescribed to treat colitis, such as prednisone, can also interfere with the absorption of calcium and vitamin D when used for prolonged periods of time. Additionally, losing calcium and vitamin D will deplete your bone density and put you at risk of osteoporosis . Up to 60 percent of people with inflammatory bowel disease have lower-than-average bone density, according to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation . You may not have any noticeable symptoms, but your gastroenterologist should regularly check for these deficiencies as part of ulcerative colitis treatment , King says. Over-the-counter supplements can help restore healthy levels. Making some changes to your diet will help, too. Dairy products are rich sources for both calcium and vitamin D, but according to a study published in the journal Nutrients , many people with UC restrict dairy from their diets after their diagnosis thinking that dairy will trigger symptoms. If you’re sensitive to dairy, grab a glass of soy or rice milk that’s fortified with calcium and vitamin D instead. You can also increase your leafy green vegetables (cooked to minimize bowel irritation), which are rich in calcium. 2. Iron Helps Fight Fatigue Iron deficiency is extremely prevalent in people with inflammatory bowel disease. Roughly 20 percent of patients suffer from anemia . Another 37 percent experience iron deficiency that falls short of anemia, according to a study published in February 2021 in the journal Nutrients . This deficiency may be due to blood loss from bloody diarrhea or internal ulcerations of the colon, or it could be caused by some drugs used to treat ulcerative colitis , such as cholestyramine. All patients with IBD should be screened for anemia — every 6 to 12 months for patients in remission and at least every 3 months for patients with active inflammation, according to research published in July 2021 in Frontiers in Medicine . “Symptoms of iron deficiency include fatigue, pale skin, and a profound craving for ice or mud” (odd as that may sound), says David T. Rubin, MD , the Joseph B. Kirsner Professor of Medicine and the chief of gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition at UChicago Medicine in Illinois. Although it was a panacea for Popeye, Dr. Rubin says that spinach alone isn't enough to treat iron deficiency . Iron supplements are an option, but they may make ulcerative colitis symptoms worse in some people, and their efficacy is not proven in patients with non-anemic iron deficiency. Another option is intravenous iron infusions, which are more effective at replenishing iron stores, and work faster and more efficiently than oral supplements with fewer side effects, according to guidance published in 2018 in Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology . Only very rarely are blood transfusions used, Rubin says. Once your iron stores are back to normal, eating an iron-rich diet with foods like lean meats and cooked leafy greens can help keep your iron at a healthy level. 3. B Vitamins Can Boost Energy and Memory People with ulcerative colitis may have problems absorbing folate — also known as folic acid or vitamin B9 — and other B vitamins, especially vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in healthy cell growth and osteoporosis prevention , notes a study published in February 2021 in Nutrients . Earlier research published in Nutrients , in April 2017 , found that patients with IBD tended to have lower folate levels than healthy patients. Vitamin B12 is absorbed in only one part of the small intestine, known as the ileum, right before it joins the colon, says King. Some medications, such as cholestyramine and sulfasalazine, can prevent B12 from being absorbed in this area and interfere with folate absorption, too. Signs of a vitamin B deficiency are a lack of energy, weakness, mood changes, and tingling in the fingers and toes, according to MedlinePlus . And a deficiency of vitamin B12 may cause memory problems, according to a study published in Cureus . Once diagnosed by a blood test , folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies may be treated with supplements. But if you're on a medication that interferes with vitamin B12 absorption, a B12 prescribed supplement or injections of the vitamin may be needed to maintain a healthy level. In conjunction with treatment, aim to eat a diet rich in sources of B vitamins and folate, like meat, poultry, and eggs, to maintain healthy levels. 4. Potassium Helps Relieve Muscle Cramps Potassium may play a role in reducing inflammation in UC patients. A study published in Scientific Reports in 2017 found that UC patients with active disease had lower urinary potassium levels than healthy controls. Additionally, in a follow-up laboratory study looking at inflammatory cells common in UC patients, researchers found that increased potassium levels reduced inflammatory cell activity. More research is ongoing to determine potassium’s clinical use, but it's well known that the chronic vomiting and diarrhea that can result from UC, as well as the use of corticosteroids (prednisone), can lead to potassium deficiency. King says potassium deficiency comes into play with UC because the colon is the final place where potassium is absorbed in the body. “The colon actually reabsorbs potassium, and it goes through the bloodstream that way,” she says. Symptoms of this deficiency may include muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat , or feeling dizzy and fainting. Eating a diet high in potassium-rich foods , such as bananas, cooked leafy green vegetables, and potatoes, is usually enough to correct a potassium deficiency, says King. Getting too much potassium through an over-the-counter supplement can potentially lead to fatal heart arrhythmias, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements . Talk to your doctor before beginning any supplements. 5. Magnesium Can Affect Your Muscles and Mood Magnesium is involved in preventing bone loss — more than half the body’s magnesium stores are in our bones, per the Harvard School of Public Health . And yet, deficiency is a common issue for people with UC because most of the mineral is absorbed in the ileum (the largest segment of the small intestine), which is often affected by the disease. Magnesium loss is also associated with the chronic diarrhea in digestive disorders , notes the NIH . Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include muscle twitching, numbness, or tingling, as well as mood changes. To treat this deficiency, you may need to take oral supplements or eat more magnesium-rich foods that you can tolerate, such as creamy peanut butter, spinach, and fish such as salmon or halibut. Dig into some Greek yogurt, since dairy products are a key source of dietary magnesium. Some common magnesium-rich foods, like nuts and dried fruits, may not be as easily digested. "You want to make sure to talk to your registered dietitian or doctor, because too much magnesium can cause diarrhea,” says King. Additional reporting by Ashley Welch .  	   
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                <media:title><![CDATA[5 Complications of Ulcerative Colitis]]></media:title>
                <media:description><![CDATA[Ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disease and a form of IBD. Complications from UC affect more than just the digestive track. Here are some things to watch out for. ]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/potential-health-benefits-of-pistachios/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/potential-health-benefits-of-pistachios/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Diet &amp; Nutrition]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[6 Potential Health Benefits of Pistachios]]></title>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 20:43:45 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Pistachios can improve heart health and digestion, protect vision, and possibly stave off cognitive decline. Learn how these nuts can improve your health.]]></description>
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            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Whether adding an earthy flavor and pretty green hue to lattes, gelatos, or the Dubai chocolate bar that went viral on social media , pistachios seem to be in every sweet treat these days. But there are also plenty of nutritious ways to enjoy the nuts — eating them straight from the shell as a snack, sprinkling them on salads — that play up their many health benefits. “Pistachios are nutrient-dense, providing a good source of protein , fiber, healthy fats, vitamins (like B6), and minerals, such as potassium and magnesium,” says Scott Keatley, RD , a registered dietitian in private practice in New York City. Pistachios are also rich in polyphenols — antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause a condition known as oxidative stress. “Oxidative stress is linked to chronic inflammation, which is a risk factor for numerous health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases,” Keatley says. “By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, the antioxidants in pistachios support overall health, protect cells, and contribute to a lower risk of chronic disease.” Read on to learn more about the health benefits of pistachios and how you can incorporate more of this nutritious nut into your diet.  	   
 Pistachio Nutrition Facts  	  Nutrition Facts  	  Here’s a closer look at what’s in a 1 ounce serving of pistachios (about 49 nuts):e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629cc28e6f0-bde7-43a3-a98e-352b4e165ecb  	   
 6 Possible Health Benefits of Pistachios  	  From heart health to digestion to weight loss, pistachios come with a number of health benefits.  	   
 Eyesight  	  1. Pistachios May Help Protect Your Eyesight Pistachios are the only nuts that contain significant amounts of both lutein and zeaxanthin, plant compounds that confer a green color and also have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bebc84f6-d542-4966-9d0d-37bb69109e5b Lutein and zeaxanthin are particularly important for eye health, as studies show they can have a beneficial effect in delaying the progression of eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bebc84f6-d542-4966-9d0d-37bb69109e5b AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in adults 50 and older.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299f602ce2-9b12-4fb4-b7d1-2eb2e3fec227  	   
 Digestion  	  2. Pistachios May Improve Digestion Pistachios contain both soluble and insoluble fiber , both of which are important for the gut. “Insoluble fiber supports digestive health by adding bulk to stool and promoting regular bowel movements, while soluble fiber can aid in satiety [feeling full], blood sugar control, and feeding beneficial gut bacteria,” Keatley explains. “This combination makes pistachios a balanced source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestive and metabolic health.” Additionally, some studies suggest that eating 1 to 2 ounces of pistachios daily may have a positive impact on the gut microbiome .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293145d1bc-84d9-4ac3-a46c-39b31a6b62a1 “Pistachios contain a special type of fiber called ‘prebiotic’ (not ‘probiotic’) fiber,” says Nate Wood, MD , director of culinary medicine at the Yale School of Medicine and co-lead of the weight management clinic at the New Haven Primary Care Consortium in Connecticut. “This prebiotic fiber selectively feeds the healthy bacteria in our guts. This leads to a healthier gut microbiome, which is an important part of digestive health.” However, more research is needed to determine the true effects of pistachios on gut bacteria.  	   
 Heart Health  	  3. Pistachios May Help Protect Your Heart Pistachios have been shown to reduce levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol , as well as blood pressure, both of which are risk factors for heart disease . “Research on pistachios and heart health is quite promising,” Keatley says. “Pistachios are rich in heart-friendly monounsaturated fats [including omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids] and fiber, which contribute to cardiovascular health. The combination of fiber and healthy fats helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels, which can lower the risk of plaque buildup in arteries.” In fact, a research review of 34 studies found that compared with diets rich in other nuts, like cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, and almonds, pistachios were associated with the greatest reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b81b2b90-a559-48bc-9aef-47872c095bff Pistachios may also help lower blood pressure. In a study of 100 adults considered overweight or obese, all participants took part in a behavioral weight loss program for four months, but only half were instructed to also eat 1.5 ounces of pistachios per day during that time. While both groups lost a similar amount of weight, those in the pistachio group experienced more significant reductions in blood pressure compared with those who only went through the weight loss intervention program.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f3da68a0-bb50-44c0-8535-f1a90e58c003 But pay attention to labels to make sure you’re not selecting a variety with added salt. “For people who are concerned about high blood pressure , salted pistachios contribute to sodium intake, so choosing an unsalted option is going to be preferable for heart health,” says Thomas Holland, MD , a physician-scientist at Rush University System for Health in Chicago and assistant professor at the Rush Institute for Healthy Aging.  	   
 Blood Sugar Control  	  4. Pistachios May Help With Blood Sugar Control The nutrients in pistachios also make them a great choice to support blood sugar management. “Pistachios are primarily a source of fat, with about 13 grams of fat per 1 ounce serving,” Keatley notes. “This high fat content, especially rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, contributes to their low glycemic index — meaning they don’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. The fats, fiber, and protein in pistachios help slow glucose absorption, leading to steadier blood sugar levels.” One review of six studies found that eating 1.5 to 2 ounces of pistachios per day was associated with a significant decrease in fasting blood sugar and insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762904a635cd-c6f6-4fb8-8124-d3395134db8b  	   
 Healthy Weight  	  5. Pistachios May Help You Maintain a Healthy Weight Because the protein, fiber, and healthy fat in pistachios help us feel more full, they can be a good option to support weight management, Keatley says. “Studies have shown that eating nuts like pistachios, as part of a balanced diet, does not contribute to weight gain,” he says.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f2a02dfe-665b-4879-b0bd-731b29062038 Of course, portion control is key, as 1 ounce of pistachios (about a handful) contains around 160 calories. “Because of the healthy fats that pistachios contain, they are not only nutrient-dense, but also relatively calorie-dense,” says Dr. Wood. “This means that they can contribute to weight gain if we eat too many of them. I would recommend folks stick to approximately one serving of nuts per day, which is 1 ounce.”  	   
 Brain Health  	  6. Pistachios May Help Boost Brain Health While there’s limited research on pistachios and cognitive health specifically, studies have linked nuts in general to a lower risk of cognitive decline.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762990883dc8-024f-4c97-b102-2dbb7255eb53 “The omega fatty acids in pistachios support brain health, helping to protect vessels in the brain from atherosclerosis and ensuring proper nutrient and oxygen delivery,” says Dr. Holland. “These nutrients also have the ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby potentially preventing damage to neural tissue in the brain, which may prevent cognitive decline,” Holland says. A study of more than 76,000 adults in the United States found that higher intake of flavonoids — a type of antioxidant found in pistachios — was associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629571a9671-0be3-4afa-bf98-d47641fb0563e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292cb34080-0e8b-49d9-aefe-0c3587165cc3  	   
 How to Incorporate Pistachios Into Your Diet  	  Recipe Ideas  	  To reap all the health benefits of pistachios, consider grabbing a bag for your pantry during your next trip to the grocery store. They’re shelf stable and should stay fresh for up to several months. Practical Tips for Consuming Pistachios A handful of pistachios can be a great snack. And with a little creativity in the kitchen, you can also make delicious, nutrient-dense meals with this versatile nut. “I suggest using them in a variety of ways: sprinkled on salads, blended into pesto, or made into a crust for fish or chicken,” Keatley says. “Pistachios also make a great addition to yogurt or oatmeal, or as part of a trail mix.” Pistachio Recipes Keatley recommends the following recipe ideas to add pistachios to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Yogurt and Pistachio Parfait Layer yogurt with chopped pistachios, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of honey for a balanced and satisfying breakfast. Pistachio-Crusted Salmon Finely chop pistachios and mix with a little olive oil, lemon zest, and garlic. Spread the mixture over salmon filets and bake until the crust is golden. Pistachio Pesto Replace pine nuts with pistachios in a classic pesto recipe. It’s great on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables.  	   
 The Takeaway  	   Pistachios are a nutrient-dense food and good source of protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Research shows pistachios may come with a number of health benefits, including eyesight protection and improved digestion, heart health, and blood sugar management. They may even help you maintain a healthy weight when consumed mindfully. Incorporate pistachios into your diet as a snack, sprinkled over a salad, oatmeal, or yogurt, or in a crust for salmon.   	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[pistachios in a bowl and pistachi pesto in a food processor]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/heart-health/drinking-coffee-only-in-the-morning-heart-health-benefits/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/heart-health/drinking-coffee-only-in-the-morning-heart-health-benefits/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Heart Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Drinking Coffee Only in the Morning May Offer the Most Heart-Health Benefits ]]></title>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 20:42:34 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Drinking coffee in the morning lowers the risk of heart disease and premature death more than drinking coffee throughout the day or not at all, a recent study shows.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Drinking coffee in the morning may lower the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and any other cause compared with drinking coffee all day or drinking none at all, a new study found.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b4c29fc7-3cdf-44b9-85f5-fc5475e4076f Compared with people who did not drink coffee, morning coffee drinkers were 31 percent less likely to die of heart disease and 16 percent less likely to die prematurely of any cause. However, all-day coffee drinkers didn’t have those same reductions — they had the same risk for heart disease death and early death as the no-coffee group. This is the first-ever study that looked at not only how much coffee people drink, but what time of day they are drinking it and health outcomes, says lead author Lu Qi, MD, PhD , a professor at the Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine at Tulane University in New Orleans. “Our findings indicate that it’s not just whether you drink coffee or how much you drink, but the time of day when you drink coffee that’s important. We don’t typically give advice about timing in our dietary guidance, but perhaps we should be thinking about this in the future,” he says. 2 or 3 Cups of Morning Coffee Were the ‘Sweet Spot’ Most prospective studies have found that moderate coffee drinking — about 200 to 300 milligrams of caffeine a day, or about two to three 12-ounce cups of coffee — is linked with lower risks of heart attack, stroke, and type 2 diabetes . The authors of the new study aimed to take the current evidence one step further: Does the time of day when people drink their coffee have any impact on heart health? The study included over 40,000 adults who were part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2018. Participants were asked about all the food and drink they consumed on at least one day, including whether they drank coffee, how much, and when. The survey also included a subgroup of about 1,400 people who were asked to complete a detailed food and drink diary for a full week. Researchers linked this information with records of deaths and cause of death over a period of close to 10 years. The study defined “morning coffee drinking” as occurring between 4 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. Close to 36 percent of people in the study were morning coffee drinkers, 16 percent drank coffee throughout the day, and 48 percent were not coffee drinkers. Morning coffee drinkers benefited from the lower risks whether they were moderate drinkers (two to three cups) or heavy drinkers (more than three cups). Light morning drinkers (one cup or less) had a smaller decrease in risk. This is a well done and fascinating study, says David Kao, MD, an associate professor of cardiology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, who was not involved in the research. Dr. Kao’s research has included investigations into the health effects of coffee drinking. “Many of us who have published in this area have noted that robust observational/real-world studies are needed to answer questions like ‘why’ and ‘how’ this association works, and this is probably the best such next-generation paper I have seen,” he says. The concentration of benefit in morning coffee drinkers is certainly valuable to discussing this issue with patients, says Kao. “It’s reassuring that several patterns observed previously — such as an apparent ‘sweet-spot’ around two to three cups of coffee per day — suggest that these findings probably are relevant to prior studies. Validation in large independent cohorts really strengthens the arguments,” he says. Why Wouldn’t Drinking Coffee Later in the Day Have the Same Benefits? Because the study was observational, it doesn’t explain why drinking coffee in the morning reduces the risk of death from cardiovascular disease or why all-day coffee drinking didn’t have the same benefits in risk reduction. “A possible explanation is that consuming coffee in the afternoon or evening may disrupt circadian rhythms and levels of hormones such as melatonin. This, in turn, leads to changes in cardiovascular risk factors such as inflammation and blood pressure,” says Dr. Qi. The authors raise very good points on the disruption of the human circadian rhythm or sleep cycle with later coffee consumption, says Nishant Shah, MD , an assistant professor of medicine at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, North Carolina, who was not involved in the study. “It is well known that good sleep hygiene leads to better health. The authors also nicely note that coffee does contain some anti-inflammatory properties that work best in the morning times [rather than at] later times,” says Dr. Shah. But when considering the findings, keep in mind that any observational study can’t establish a causal relationship, just a suggestion of one, he says. “There may also be other factors that influenced the results of the study. For example, early morning coffee drinkers may have better overall health and lifestyle habits than those who drink coffee throughout the day,” says Shah. The study also may be subject to recall biases based on the self-reported nature of many of the variables, he says. “However, the authors did a great job in trying to limit as many factors as possible that could influence the results,” says Shah. Should You Stop Drinking Afternoon Coffee? Although the findings are compelling, there isn’t enough data to recommend that people confine their coffee drinking to the morning — experts still aren’t sure that the reduced risk is connected to the timing or other factors, says Kao. “It’s also worth noting that all-day drinkers don’t have a worse risk compared with non–coffee drinkers, just not a significantly reduced risk,” he says. This would suggest that if coffee throughout the day is an important part of someone’s life, and it isn’t causing any harm, there’s no reason to recommend against it, says Kao. Qi agrees, saying, “More studies are needed to validate our findings in different populations before making recommendations.”  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/urinary-tract-infections-pictures/foods-and-drinks-that-may-irritate-your-bladder-1028.aspx]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/urinary-tract-infections-pictures/foods-and-drinks-that-may-irritate-your-bladder-1028.aspx]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Kidney &amp; Urinary Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Foods You Shouldn&#39;t Eat When Treating a UTI]]></title>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 17:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Certain foods and drinks are known to cause bladder irritation and worsen UTI symptoms. Avoid these seven foods and drinks if you’re trying to treat a UTI.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Urinary tract infections (UTIs) — the symptoms of which include pain and burning during urination — are treated with antibiotics.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e12af4a8-454f-48ef-a87b-56e3ef0f3cf2 “A UTI isn’t treated with dietary changes,” says Philippe E. Zimmern, MD , director of the Cain Bladder Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. “That means following your doctor’s advice for taking the antibiotic is key in clearing the infection from your body.” However, certain foods may aggravate your bladder and worsen symptoms during treatment. That’s when what you eat and drink may impact how you feel during this time. Keep reading to learn about the seven types of food and drinks to avoid or limit when you have a UTI.  	   
 1. Acidic Foods Citrus, tomatoes, and carbonated beverages (seltzer, tonic, flavored sparkling waters) are all acidic foods. “Acidic foods make the bladder more sensitive,” says Karolynn Echols, MD , urogynecologist and director of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at Jefferson Health in Philadelphia. Echols notes that the bladder typically has a protective lining that safeguards the muscle of the bladder, which contracts when you have to urinate. “When you have a UTI, the lining becomes weak and the bladder muscle is more sensitive to these acidic foods,” she explains. 2. Spicy Foods Spicy peppers contain an active ingredient called capsaicin that gives them their fiery heat. However, “capsaicin can irritate the bladder in some sensitive people,” says Dr. Zimmern. That may mean a stronger urge to urinate more often. If possible, keep your food choices more on the mild side while you’re recovering from a UTI. Spicy foods include hot peppers, hot sauce, salsas, curries, and any other dish that provides a little heat. Now’s the time to avoid topping off tacos and pizza slices with jalapeños. 3. Caffeine During UTI treatment, it’s time to rethink your morning cup of coffee or afternoon tea. “Caffeine excites the brain, and the brain is what controls the bladder,” says Zimmern. Therefore, caffeine will excite your bladder, he says. During a time when you may be urinating often, consuming caffeinated beverages or foods like coffee, tea, caffeinated sodas, or chocolate will have you heading to the bathroom even more frequently. 4. Alcohol Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it prompts your body to produce more urine, leading to more frequent peeing.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295acab20d-b89d-4dd8-bb1f-cb7129154fcb “For that reason, it’s another drink that aggravates the bladder,” says Dr. Echols. “When you’re already urinating more often than normal with a UTI, having an alcoholic drink only worsens the symptoms.” In addition, alcohol may interact with the antibiotics treating the infection, says Zimmern. “We recommend not drinking alcohol when taking antibiotics,” he says. “Save wine, beer, hard liquor, and other alcoholic drinks for after recovery.” 5. Sugary Foods and Drinks There are two reasons to avoid consuming a lot of sugar right now. For one, “sugary drinks — such as soda, some juices, sweet teas, sweetened coffees, and sports drinks — stimulate the bladder, so you’ll be going to the bathroom more,” says Echols. Secondly, bacteria feed on sugar. “Consuming sugar makes it easier for the infection to take hold,” she says. Sugar also increases the acid level of urine, which creates a better environment for bacteria to feed.” Finally, Echols also points out that high-sugar diets may hinder immune response. “This can be detrimental when your body is fighting infection,” she notes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629629c66e3-303f-498d-961b-e023eba25ff1 Along with the drinks mentioned above, other top sources of sugar in the diet include desserts, sweet snacks, candy, and breakfast cereals and bars. Although not exactly like a candy bar, Echols recommends consuming berries “to add sweetness to your diet during UTI treatment, because their compounds, such as anthocyanins and resveratrol, provide anti-inflammatory properties.” 6. High-Sodium Foods In general, we tend to consume nearly 50 percent more sodium than experts recommend.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629377fe85c-1ea7-4613-912b-2b51a8e6d161 “The problem here is that high-sodium foods are another culprit that can create urinary urge and frequency,” says Echols. “These foods activate the nervous system, which can make the bladder hyperactive, too,” she adds. There is also research suggesting that restricting daily salt intake may help reduce urinary symptoms in people who have overactive bladder and benefit overall health.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290da8ea4d-eba4-4922-b9b8-1572349542fe While not the same as a UTI, when you have an infection, your bladder can be considered overactive. It’s worth it to focus on eating a lower-sodium diet. High-sodium foods to avoid include sandwiches, pizza, soups, savory snacks, condiments, desserts, and bread.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629de5c6980-3a02-444f-aefb-7a83fb1704c3 7. Cured and Processed Meats “Avoid cured meats during UTI treatment,” says Echols. “Aged, processed meats often contain nitrates (a preservative), which is another bladder irritant.” You can instead opt for fresh meats and proteins during this time, including: Chicken Fish Lean cuts of red meat Uncured, nitrate-free products This will be listed on the front label of the package. So check your favorite brands to see if it has nitrates. The Takeaway Some foods in your diet can stimulate the bladder and contribute to UTI symptoms. Decreasing your intake of acidic foods, spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, sodium, and more may help reduce urinary urgency and frequency. In addition, limiting sugar is important for supporting your body’s ability to clear the infection.  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/gerd/pictures-of-low-acid-foods-to-add-to-your-reflux-diet/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/gerd/pictures-of-low-acid-foods-to-add-to-your-reflux-diet/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Digestive Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[8 Low-Acid Foods for Your Reflux Diet]]></title>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 15:16:11 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Try adding these 8 low-acidic foods to your diet if you&#39;re looking to reduce your acid reflux symptoms or you&#39;re living with GERD.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ 
 Regular heartburn sufferers know the importance of avoiding the foods that trigger their reflux. Certain foods that are high in saturated fat, for example, can loosen the pressure of the sphincter muscle, located at the top of the stomach. If it’s not tightly “shut,” it allows food and stomach acid to backwash into the esophagus and throat, causing heartburn. While keeping acids in their place is one way of avoiding heartburn, another school of thought encourages avoiding highly acidic foods, too, as a way of stopping the acid before it’s even in the stomach. Quick chemistry lesson: Water’s pH is 7, which is neutral. Anything lower is acidic, and anything higher is basic (or alkaline). Dropping by 1 on the pH scale means the acidity is 10 times higher, so even small decreases in pH can mean big increases in acidity. A normal stomach pH is between 1 and 4. It’s already acidic. “The stomach’s pH is low because it secretes gastric acid, which plays a large role in food breakdown,” explains Michelle Duong Davenport, MA, an adjunct instructor at New York University and a researcher at the NYU School of Medicine.  	   
 Some History on Low-Acid Foods  	  Experts currently discourage reflux sufferers from eating certain foods and beverages known to cause heartburn , such as chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, and alcohol. Doing so can help prevent heartburn in some people, but everyone is different. One study even makes a case for following a diet centered on low-acid foods. The small study, published in the Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology, included 20 people who continued to suffer from reflux symptoms despite standard treatment with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and an H2-blocker. But after consuming only foods and beverages with a pH of 5 or greater for at least 2 weeks, 19 of those 20 participants saw improvement. More research is needed, but the idea of a low-acid diet is intriguing. Additionally, eating low-acid foods may bring about other health benefits, ranging from decreased erosion of tooth enamel to a lower risk of bone fractures — a potential side effect of taking PPIs for heartburn. So if your doctor suggests you try a low-acid lifestyle, here’s where to start. Read up on the low-acid diet staples that may bring GERD relief, along with some other health perks.  	   
 Bananas  	  “Bananas are generally considered to be alkaline in nature and not acidic,” says Patrick Takahashi, MD, a gastroenterologist at St. Vincent Medical Center in Los Angeles. “They are a good source of fiber and vitamin B6, and help with maintaining potassium, which is good for your heart and bones in general.” Raw bananas are probably the best source of nutrients. You can eat them at any time, for a snack or with a meal. In some low-acid baking recipes, you can mash them up as a substitute for a fat component.  	   
 Skinless Chicken  	  Skinless chicken makes a great low-acid diet staple. High in protein, a 4-ounce portion provides two-thirds of the recommended daily amount. While chicken is perfectly fine, deep-frying it in greasy oil will only trigger heartburn. Prepare it mindfully, with as few reflux-triggering spices as possible.  	   
 Apples  	  Another low-acid option, apples make a great source of fiber, too. “Fiber can help you stay full longer, which can minimize overeating during the day,” says Tara Harwood, MS, RD, a dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic's Digestive Disease Institute. “Fiber also helps with lowering cholesterol and preventing spikes in blood sugar.” Even the skins, which have polyphenols and flavonoids, can be good for you.  	   
 Fish  	  Fish is a nutritious component in any diet but an excellent source of protein in a low-acid diet. Salmon, for example, contains omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit the heart, joints, and eyes. It may also protect against certain kinds of cancer. As with chicken, the most effective GERD recipes for fish will limit or exclude spices and heavy seasonings to avoid heartburn issues. And remember to skip the lemon . Its low pH makes it acidic.  	   
 Oatmeal  	  Oatmeal is a great breakfast option for people sticking to a low-acid diet. High in filling fiber , oats can help improve cardiovascular health and stabilize blood sugar, among other benefits. When topping off a hot bowl of oatmeal with fruit, remember to avoid ones high in acid, like strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries.  	   
 Almonds  	  Unlike other nuts such as pecans, cashews, and walnuts, almonds are generally alkaline. The monounsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids almonds contain can protect the heart and the high fiber content can keep you feeling full between meals. Almonds also contain Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, and the minerals manganese and magnesium. Use almonds in place of other nuts when preparing low-acid recipes.  	   
 Whole-Grain Brown Rice  	  Brown rice is a healthy choice whether or not you’re following a low-acid diet. It's high in fiber, which can help regulate the digestive tract, plus it’s heart-healthy and chock-full of B vitamins, which can help keep the body full of energy.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[almonds ginger papayas bananas aloe vera]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/type-1-diabetes-screening-and-early-detection/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/type-1-diabetes-screening-and-early-detection/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Diabetes]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Type 1 Diabetes Screening and Early Detection: A Complete Guide]]></title>
            <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jan 2025 14:46:56 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Discover how type 1 diabetes screening works, its benefits, and who should be screened. Early detection improves outcomes with proactive management and new treatments.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Most people who have received a type 1 diabetes diagnosis will tell you that it seemed to strike randomly and abruptly, but it’s possible to identify the condition with a blood test long before it causes health issues. A growing chorus of experts say that more people — including anyone with a family history of type 1 diabetes — should be screened for the autoantibodies that cause type 1 diabetes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c583b484-3448-43fb-bfe9-eb55cfab3157 Proactively screening for type 1 diabetes allows people to benefit from a new treatment that can delay the onset of the disease and training that can help make the transition to life with diabetes safer and less traumatic.  	   
 How Type 1 Diabetes Screening Works  	  How T1D Screening Works  	  Type 1 diabetes screening uses a blood test to search for malfunctioning proteins called autoantibodies.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d61e2827-ccbf-4d39-b06d-2bf5aaececd0 These autoantibodies attack cells in the pancreas called beta cells, which create and release the hormone insulin. As the body loses its ability to create insulin, blood sugars rise to dangerous levels. This autoimmune attack is the cause of type 1 diabetes. There are multiple autoantibodies, and type 1 diabetes requires the presence of at least two different types to develop. If your blood test shows that you have no autoantibodies, you probably have a low risk of developing type 1 diabetes — although not necessarily zero.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290170bf61-0c5a-4d57-bb4e-f05e57b931b4 If you have one autoantibody, you have a heightened risk of developing type 1 diabetes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762925b9be49-1ae4-48f4-84bc-e012ec1e7377 You will likely be advised to take another autoantibody test in the future, to see if you develop any additional autoantibodies. Autoantibodies can emerge unpredictably over time, especially in children. People with two or more autoantibodies, however, are virtually guaranteed to develop type 1 diabetes, although the onset of the full-blown disease could be years away.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e1eaeb6c-5aec-427d-a501-6f8af0c0c754 In fact, people with two or more autoantibodies technically already have type 1 diabetes — even if it hasn’t caused any symptoms yet.  	   
 The Progression of Type 1 Diabetes  	  T1D Progression  	  Screening allows doctors to confirm the presence of type 1 diabetes before it becomes dangerous. Most people with type 1 diabetes are diagnosed only after they see a doctor to treat the symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). These warning signs — which include blurry vision, increased thirst, frequent urination, unintentional weight loss, and intense hunger — indicate that blood sugar levels have risen into a dangerous range. These signs, however, represent only the final stage in the slow progression of type 1 diabetes. Experts delineate three stages of type 1 diabetes development:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629750d2f8f-f318-4474-b24f-05a064512510 Stage 1 A blood test will show the presence of two or more autoantibodies, which will eventually cause the autoimmune attack that defines type 1 diabetes. During this stage, blood sugar levels are still normal and there are no symptoms. Stage 2 The autoimmune attack is under way and the pancreatic cells are in the process of being destroyed. At this point a glucose test will show abnormal blood sugar levels, which are not yet high enough to cause symptoms. Stage 3 The person has finally developed full-blown type 1 diabetes. By now, the patient has lost so many beta cells and creates so little insulin that they are experiencing the symptoms of hyperglycemia. Insulin treatment is now necessary. Because the first and second stages of type 1 diabetes development have no obvious symptoms, they can only be discovered by screening. Though there is no way to prevent the development of type 1 diabetes, identifying these earlier stages of the condition can considerably improve prognosis.  	   
 The Benefits of Early Type 1 Diabetes Detection  	  Benefits of Early Detection  	  There are two big benefits to early type 1 diabetes detection: DKA prevention and early treatment to delay symptom onset. DKA Prevention Perhaps the single largest benefit to type 1 diabetes screening is the reduced incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) , a consequence of severe hyperglycemia that can be deadly if not treated promptly. Today, about 40 percent of American children are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes only after developing DKA.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a21a1fd8-f988-4d65-afc9-0ad92b11bd90 This condition is both dangerous and painful. “It’s a very traumatic experience,” says Claudia Lewis , an endocrinology physician assistant at the University Hospitals Diabetes and Metabolic Care Center in Cleveland. “They are super sick in the intensive care unit.” DKA also appears to have negative long-term health effects. People who endure DKA at diagnosis go on to have a more difficult time managing diabetes,e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762966495e45-dcf5-4f23-8387-6f28ed272aa2 and some may also experience cognitive impairment.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762923aaea3f-5d2d-422c-a014-c99aa0faa6e2 If you know that you have an early stage of type 1 diabetes, or a heightened risk of it, you’ll likely be instructed to test your blood sugar regularly in order to catch the first signs of hyperglycemia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294a7589b3-0da7-4b25-9cb3-2b85b372419c Testing regularly and collaborating with healthcare providers allows people to be treated with insulin before their condition progresses to a critical state. “We could prevent a lot of DKA,” says Lewis. Early detection also gives people time to learn about diabetes and the elements of diabetes treatment, such as carbohydrate counting, thus ensuring a far smoother and less stressful transition once they need to begin insulin therapy. “It gives people time to cope with the diagnosis. There are a lot of psychosocial barriers, and it’s so much education. If people can learn it over time, rather than in a crash course, it would be helpful,” says Lewis. Early Type 1 Diabetes Treatment There is one drug approved to treat people for an early stage of diabetes: teplizumab (Tzield). When given to people with stage 2 type 1 diabetes, Tzield delays the onset of symptoms by an average of nearly three years.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292ced1d89-27ae-46e7-a8e9-2dab68d9a86c Lewis says that delaying insulin dependency by several years can have massive benefits, especially in younger people. “It’s much easier to manage if they’re a little bit older. You have time to learn about it. If you delayed the onset from age 18 to age 22, someone could go through their whole college career without diabetes. That would make their life a lot easier.” Tzield, which is approved for patients age 8 and older, is a liquid that is administered in an IV infusion, once per day over a 14-day period. The drug is also extremely expensive. A full course of the medication reportedly has a sticker price of $193,900.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f7fb5b4f-126a-42c7-85df-1745ac1d3e32 Lewis encourages eligible users to look into the drugmaker’s patient assistance program .  	   
 Who Should Get Screened?  	  Who Should Get Screened?  	  Type 1 diabetes most commonly develops in children, and the condition runs in families.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298281dd77-4e22-49ee-8faa-34b8088ac388 That means the best candidates for type 1 diabetes screening are children who have family members with the disease. Lewis, who has type 1 diabetes herself, encouraged her siblings to get screened: “I have three younger brothers. They wanted to know so they could do something about it, or so they could have peace of mind if they knew they didn’t have it. We want all patients who have type 1 diabetes to think about getting their family members screened.” Otherwise, there are no clear guidelines for who should get screened. The American Diabetes Association states that “screening should be offered to those with a family history of type 1 diabetes or otherwise known elevated genetic risk.”e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f34e1860-fe06-4d9d-852e-dd160c603cfa Indeed, Lewis believes that all children should be screened routinely in primary care. Though the condition does have a strong genetic component, “80 percent of people [with type 1 diabetes] have no family history,” she says. Some researchers agree with her. A pilot program in Germany that tested all children for type 1 diabetes autoantibodies was able to dramatically reduce local cases of DKA.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299433f595-142b-464a-8147-f88c870334cd Adults with a family history of the disease may also wish to consider screening. Although type 1 diabetes has a reputation as a condition that strikes during childhood, about half of all diagnoses are made in people over the age of 18.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ca1fd3c1-5f88-4257-af4b-f668ea0ea369 “We see it at all ages,” says Lewis. “I would never say you’re too old to get screened.”  	   
 Resources: How to Get Screened for Type 1 Diabetes  	  How to Get Screened  	  The push for type 1 diabetes screening is relatively new, and not all doctors’ offices or endocrinology clinics have made screening routine. The first step is to ask your doctor about screening. They may be able to administer a test in their office or refer you to a local lab. If you go through your regular doctor it may help you secure health insurance coverage for the cost of testing. In the United States, there are several other independent resources that can arrange screening tests, sometimes free of cost. TrialNet offers free type 1 diabetes screening to family members of people with diabetes. Your blood test results are made available to researchers working on type 1 diabetes prevention and cures. ASK — Autoimmunity Screening for Kids , an autoimmunity research effort, offers free screening for both type 1 diabetes and celiac disease to all children under the age of 18, regardless of family history. The Diabetes Link , a nonprofit community for young adults with type 1 diabetes, offers links to screening programs and advice on talking to your doctor and insurance company. Breakthrough T1D , a nonprofit devoted to type 1 diabetes advocacy and research, maintains a page of early detection links and information. In addition, several private laboratories offer at-home testing kits.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Type 1 diabetes progresses slowly, and can be identified in its earliest stages with a simple blood test. Experts recommend that family members of people with type 1 diabetes consider screening for the condition. Early detection allows patients and their families to prepare for the onset of symptoms, which can considerably reduce the danger, stress, and turmoil that often accompany diagnosis. If your doctor’s office doesn’t support type 1 diabetes screening, a number of resources can help make it convenient and affordable.  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/foods-to-eat-after-crohns-or-ulcerative-colitis-flare/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/foods-to-eat-after-crohns-or-ulcerative-colitis-flare/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Digestive Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[5 Best Foods to Eat After a Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis Flare]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 21:31:43 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Learn why white rice, mashed potatoes, fruits without the skin, and other low-fiber and low-residue foods are your best bet after a Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis flare-up.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you have an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (UC), you might not feel like eating much after a flare-up. But good nutrition plays an essential role in your recovery. One reason: IBD flares make it more difficult for your body to absorb key nutrients, says Eric Yoon, MD , a gastroenterologist and an attending physician at Manhattan Gastroenterology in New York City. For example, inflammation from IBD and steroids used to treat flares can zap your body of protein . The body needs protein for many functions, like cell repair, protection from bacteria and viruses, growth, and more.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762999162b34-7302-4772-81b8-a5e12902ea5be60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762991e2bfe7-2375-452c-8e85-a0bba75fdac6 As you recover from a flare, it can help to start with smaller, more frequent meals and to follow a low-residue diet . A low-residue diet involves limiting dietary fiber, whole grains, and dairy. In turn, this decreases the amount of residue (undigested remains of fiber and other foods that contribute to waste in the colon) that could cause irritation as it passes through your digestive system.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762991e2bfe7-2375-452c-8e85-a0bba75fdac6 Here are five low-residue foods to reach for after an IBD flare. 1. White Grains In general, nutrition experts typically recommend whole grains over white grains because they contain more nutrients, like fiber. But as mentioned, you may want to temporarily steer clear of high-fiber foods like whole grains after a flare. Fiber can sometimes be harder to digest than other nutrients.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f1d1cc4f-b494-41f5-9bed-430b97b13e35 Instead, stick with white grains and starches like white rice, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and noodles for the time being. Unlike whole-grain breads, white bread or sourdough are often more gentle on the gut after a flare.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762991e2bfe7-2375-452c-8e85-a0bba75fdac6e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762999162b34-7302-4772-81b8-a5e12902ea5b 2. Well-Cooked Veggies Vegetables offer vitamins and anti-inflammatory nutrients and also give you some (but not too much) fiber. “Cooked, noncruciferous vegetables, like cooked carrots, are gentle on digestion and provide essential nutrients like beta-carotene and potassium,” says Trista Best, MPH, RD , a registered dietitian in Dalton, Georgia, who advises people with IBD. Nutrients like these boost your immune health and your gut recovery, Best adds.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629aa5d92f0-8bd4-476a-8e37-0fa5839f3b94 Other soft, cooked veggies like green beans, asparagus tips, and pureed squash are also packed with important nutrients.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762999162b34-7302-4772-81b8-a5e12902ea5b Vegetables like spinach and collard greens offer plenty of calcium, and artichokes and cooked beets contain iron, says Dr. Yoon. You can also blend veggies into smoothies for an easy-to-digest meal or snack.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f1d1cc4f-b494-41f5-9bed-430b97b13e35 That said, it may be a good idea to avoid fresh, uncooked vegetables temporarily. They can increase how much stool your body produces and lead to further irritation as you recover from a flare.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762991e2bfe7-2375-452c-8e85-a0bba75fdac6 3. Plain Lean Poultry and Fish For some, meat may seem especially unappetizing after an IBD flare, but lean meats like chicken and turkey and fish are great sources of protein that can help your gut recover.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762999162b34-7302-4772-81b8-a5e12902ea5b “It is tempting, but harmful, to forego meats after an IBD flare, as the protein provided is important for tissue repair and adequate nourishment post-flare,” says Best. “Lean proteins like skinless poultry or fish are easier to digest while providing essential nutrients like protein and B vitamins.”e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629aa5d92f0-8bd4-476a-8e37-0fa5839f3b94 Some lean protein sources give you the bonus of healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish, for example, can decrease inflammation, which can help you ease out of a flare and back into your typical diet.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762991e2bfe7-2375-452c-8e85-a0bba75fdac6 Ensure any poultry or fish you eat is plain and doesn’t have too many spices or seasonings, which could irritate the gut. If you prefer nonmeat sources of protein, you can get healthy proteins from scrambled eggs, tofu, and some nut and seed butters. Just be sure that any nut or seed butters you eat are smooth and don’t contain any whole nuts or seeds, which can cause problems for people with strictures related to their IBD.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762991e2bfe7-2375-452c-8e85-a0bba75fdac6e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629aa5d92f0-8bd4-476a-8e37-0fa5839f3b94 4. Soft Fruits Fruits are packed with vitamins and anti-inflammatory nutrients that are essential after a Crohn’s or UC flare.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629aa5d92f0-8bd4-476a-8e37-0fa5839f3b94 But most raw fruits — especially when eaten with the skin — contain too much fiber for a sensitive stomach. The most gut-friendly fruits to eat after a flare are peeled apples or applesauce, honeydew melon, ripe bananas, cantaloupe, or watermelon. Be sure to avoid seeds in any fruits you eat, which can cause problems for people with strictures.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762999162b34-7302-4772-81b8-a5e12902ea5be60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762991e2bfe7-2375-452c-8e85-a0bba75fdac6 5. Probiotic-Rich Foods An IBD flare can disrupt your intestinal ecosystem — the collection of good and bad bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the gut known as the gut microbiome — which can decrease the levels of good bacteria in your gut.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629aa5d92f0-8bd4-476a-8e37-0fa5839f3b94 The gut microbiome helps you absorb nutrients from your food and plays a key part in your immune system and mental health, too.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e58a80c7-27f3-4cf0-a71d-0eb9e580b44c After a flare, it can help to eat foods rich in probiotics, live microorganisms such as bacteria that are good for you and can restore balance in your microbiome. Be sure to limit dairy sources of probiotics (like traditional milk) and instead opt for low-residue options like lactose-free milk and yogurt or nondairy milks such as almond, cashew, or rice milk as you recover.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762999162b34-7302-4772-81b8-a5e12902ea5be60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291af45258-4ed3-4501-ac4b-388cdde725df Probiotics also come in supplement form, but be sure you discuss any new supplement with a healthcare provider first before trying it. The Takeaway After a flare from Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, you may not have much of an appetite, but optimizing your nutrition will play an important role in getting your gut and overall health back on track. Start with small, frequent meals packed with protein but low in fiber, which can be rough on the gut. These will help you ease back into eating after a flare. Some foods you can try after an IBD flare include mashed potatoes, well-cooked carrots, lean poultry or fish, applesauce, and ripe bananas, among others.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[watermelon, honeydew melon, carrots, rice]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/mental-health-conditions/destigmatizing-schizophrenia-story-of-advocacy-and-hope/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/mental-health-conditions/destigmatizing-schizophrenia-story-of-advocacy-and-hope/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Mental Health Conditions]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Destigmatizing Schizophrenia: A Story of Advocacy and Hope]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:43:07 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Kody Green and Bethany Yeiser, who live with schizophrenia, share why they became mental health advocates.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Advocacy — taking action to create change on behalf of others — can be life-changing for many with health conditions like schizophrenia . This is true for Kody Green and Bethany Yeiser , two people diagnosed with schizophrenia who’ve approached advocacy in different ways with goals of educating others about schizophrenia, dispelling stigma , connecting with others, and making a difference in the lives of those affected by the condition. We sat down with Green and Yeiser to discuss their thoughts on and experiences with schizophrenia advocacy. Everyday Health: Why did you decide to become an advocate? Kody Green: My journey through advocacy was kind of unintentional. I started just posting about my life as a person living with schizophrenia [and] as a recovered addict. I made a video that I called ‘Schizophrenic Storytime’ on TikTok. I went to sleep with 300 followers, and I woke up with 10,000 followers. I didn't choose my username [ @schizophrenichippie ]. It was actually [from] one of my first videos I did. It was a hate comment that I got, and so I decided to take it and use it as my own branding. And, it just kind of stuck. I started realizing that people were able to identify with my story. It was unintentional for me to get into advocacy, but my story started connecting with people, and I realized how big of an impact it could make if I kept doing it. Bethany Yeiser: Well, my dream was to go back to school, and so when I was diagnosed with schizophrenia, of course, I was told that was totally impossible. But I did go back to school. I graduated in my field of molecular biology, which had been my dream years prior. I graduated with a 3.83 [grade point average]. I did really well, and I told a few people in school, “Hey, you know, I have schizophrenia.” And I mean, they look at me and they don't know how to respond to that. Am I dangerous [or] erratic? Should they not speak to me again? Should they walk away? So, I started telling people what I'd gone through, and I started feeling like I was living under the shadow and nobody knew who I really was. My psychiatrist really encouraged me to write a memoir, and I published Mind Estranged in 2014. When Mind Estranged came out, I got a very different response. People would tell me they learned something. Some people told me I was brave. And all of a sudden, I'm able to share the most intimate details of my life with everybody. EH: Why is it so important to connect with other people with schizophrenia? KG: I think the reason it's so important to connect with other people with schizophrenia is because it's still a very stigmatized illness. It's still a very misunderstood illness. I get a lot of confusion and [misunderstandings] through people that comment on my posts who don't understand that someone with schizophrenia could be healthy and get medication and treatment so that they present like I do. EH: Do you ever find it challenging to have one-on-one conversations with others about schizophrenia? BY: [Occasionally] I will run into an old friend I haven't seen in many years. I'll mention [that I have schizophrenia] and they give me this frightened look, like, “Oh, schizophrenia!” And I was like, “I forgot that [stigma is] still present in the community.” EH: What’s your message to someone who's been newly diagnosed with schizophrenia? KG: I think the most important message I share with people who are newly diagnosed is, there is hope later on in life to be living comfortably and functionally, and you get back a lot of your old self. I think that's the most devastating part of having an illness like schizophrenia — the fear that that won't come back. EH: What’s something positive you've gained or learned through your experience? BY: I just remember when I was diagnosed, I thought, “This is it. If I have schizophrenia, I'll be locked away forever. I'll never be taken seriously.” The fact of the matter is, the vast majority of people with schizophrenia today are living in the community. EH: What’s something that you love doing in the advocacy space? BY: I love my foundation [ CURESZ Foundation ]. It makes me happy. It keeps me going, and then I feel like I'm making a difference. EH: What message do you want to leave with people about life with schizophrenia and advocacy? KG: No matter what you're advocating for, no matter what your illness is, no matter what you're struggling with, there are people who want to hear your story. BY: There is more hope than ever today. KG: Knowing people who are going through the same thing can be just so inspiring, and I think it starts a lot of us as advocates. Edited for length and clarity.  	   
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                <media:title><![CDATA[Destigmatizing Schizophrenia: A Story of Advocacy and Hope]]></media:title>
                <media:description><![CDATA[Schizophrenia advocates Bethany Yeiser and Kody Green discuss how community is the key to the dismantling schizophrenia stereotypes, and creating hope for those with the condition.]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/what-you-should-know-about-getting-abs/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/what-you-should-know-about-getting-abs/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[How to Get 6-Pack Abs — and Why It’s So Challenging]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:01:33 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Skip the crunches. Reducing body fat, building muscle, Pilates- and yoga-inspired exercises, and cardio are all part of creating sculpted abdominals.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[How to get abs? It all boils down to genetics. And planks. Six-pack abs are often held up as the pinnacle of fitness — if your middle shows those segmented muscles, you must be fit, right? Wrong. Sure, it does take a lot of strength training to build up your abdominal muscles , but before you can understand everything that goes into sculpting a six-pack, you need to understand some basic anatomy. First: “The six-pack abs so many people chase are actually just one muscle, not six,” explains Melody Dickerson , a certified personal trainer and instructor at Fhitting Room, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio in New York City. What looks like six abdominals is actually just your rectus abdominis, adds Michele Olson, PhD , senior clinical professor of sport science at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama. “The rectus abdominis muscle has large tendons that stretch from right to left across the muscle,” Dr. Olson says. Those bands actually lay on top of the rectus abdominis, so “when the body fat in the belly area is reduced and the rectus abdominis muscle is developed, you see the muscle between each indentation,” she explains. What Do You Have to Do to Get 6-Pack Abs? If you want a more segmented look to your core, you’re going to need to build up your rectus abdominis. “Crunches are not going to get the job done,” says Dickerson. Try These Advanced Abdominal Strengtheners Dickerson suggests performing advanced supine (on your back) exercises, like jackknives; rotational (circular) movements, like oblique medicine ball slams; and suspended (from a hanging position) movements, like knee tucks and L-sits. Jackknives Lie flat on the floor on your back. Sit up, reach your right hand to your left toes, then lie back down. Alternate arms and legs. Oblique Medicine Ball Slams From a standing position, hold a medicine ball at one hip, then lift it overhead and pivot your body to slam it down on the floor on the other side. Repeat, alternating sides. Hanging Knee Tucks Hang from a bar with your arms overhead and tuck your knees up to your chest. Hanging L-Sits While hanging from a bar with your arms overhead, raise your legs straight out in front of your hips, making an L shape with your body. Try to perform three rounds of each exercise for 30 to 45 seconds per round, Dickerson suggests. Other suspended movements may be even more beneficial. According to one study , using a TRX suspension trainer for a roll-out exercise (stand at an incline while holding the TRX straps with your arms perpendicular to the floor, then flex your shoulders to move your hands forward) showed the highest activation of the rectus abdominis muscles. The body saw (with your feet in the TRX strap handle, form a plank or push-up position with your forearms touching the floor, then push your body backward) was also found to effectively activate the rectus abdominis muscles. Pilates- and Yoga-Inspired Core Exercises Pilates- and yoga -inspired moves can help, too. “Pilates exercises work the entire group of abdominal muscles, but I found in lab tests that the roll-up, the teaser, and the roll over were really bullish on the rectus abdominis,” says Olson. Here’s how to perform each of these three moves, according to Olson: Roll-Up Lie flat on the floor on your back, with your legs straight and your arms stretched out behind your head. Make sure your low back isn’t arching. Breathe in and begin rolling up through your spine, floating your arms up in the air. Breathe out as you roll up through your spine and press your ribs down. Stretch your arms and body forward. Breathe in and then breathe out as you roll back to the starting position. Teaser This exercise is often called a banana roll, for good reason. Lie flat on the floor on your back, with your legs straight and your arms stretched out behind your head. Make sure your low back isn’t arching. Breathe in and begin lifting your legs and rolling your shoulders off the floor. Breathe out and press your ribs down as your legs and upper body roll off the floor. Lift your arms and legs until they reach a 45-degree angle, with your arms parallel to your legs. Breathe out as you slowly roll back to the starting position. Roll Over Lie flat on the floor on your back, with your arms by your sides, palms down, and lift your legs to a 90-degree angle. Breathe in and begin to reach your legs over your head as your pelvis tilts backward. Keep your palms pressed down on the floor and end with your feet and legs parallel to the floor. Breathe out and slowly move your legs back to the 90-degree position, placing one vertebra at a time on the floor. Important: If you have any neck or back issues, talk to your doctor, trainer, or physical therapist before trying this exercise. Hip-ups, for which you lie on your back with your feet extended toward the ceiling and use your lower abs to lift your hips off the floor, are also great for the abs, Olson adds. Olson also recommends including yoga-inspired planks in your workouts, because they protect your spine while effectively strengthening your abs. According to a study , a long-lever posterior-tilt plank is especially good for developing your rectus abdominis. In this advanced variation on a traditional plank, your forearms are on the floor, your elbows are closer together and further toward your head than in a traditional plank, and you squeeze your glutes to tilt your pelvis back. If you really want to see definition in your abs, you can do abdominal exercises five times a week, says Olson. “You’d want to do an ab sequence of five or so exercises” — look to the moves recommended above — “and do 12 reps of each before resting and repeating the sequence 3 to 5 times, finishing with some planking,” she recommends. RELATED: Does Yoga Count as Exercise? Aerobic Exercise Plays a Role, Too But it’s not just about working your core muscles. “If you’re trying to lose the fat tissue under the skin that sits above the muscle, HIIT and cardio training are best,” explains Olson. But it needs to be intense. “You’ll want to push yourself into a zone that elevates your heart rate to at least 85 percent of your max. Do this after you’ve done a solid 20 minutes of challenging cardio, like running or Spinning. Then launch into 10 to 15 minutes of HIIT, skipping rope, doing plyometrics like squat jumps, or sprinting on a bike or treadmill,” she says. Can Everyone Get Sculpted 6-Pack Abs? The short answer: unfortunately, no. “Visible abs are very difficult to achieve for those of us who aren’t genetically blessed,” says Dickerson. “Everyone’s muscles are built differently. Some people have deep muscle bellies, which create higher peaks in between those tendons, and thus abs are more visible. Others have more shallow muscle bellies, which means you may never get the peaks and valleys like some people.” The size and length of your tendons and the makeup of your muscle fibers affect your abs, too, and these are things you can’t change. “Some people have more fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are used for fast, powerful bursts, while others have more slow-twitch fibers, which help with endurance tasks,” says Olson. “If you tend to have more slow-twitch fibers, your abs won’t develop appearance-wise as much as the abs of people who may have more fast-twitch fibers in their abdominal muscle wall.” Then there’s the matter of body fat. You can’t train away a bad diet, says Dickerson. “You have to cut out processed foods and reduce your overall calories to lose body fat, in addition to eating sufficient protein, carbs , and fats from fresh foods, whole grains, and lean meats,” says Olson. Even then, “while you may start to see your abs, it’s not realistic for most of us to have abs like bodybuilders — they have to go to extremes to get such obviously ripped abs,” Olson says. RELATED: What to Eat Before and After Your Workout Healthy body fat percentages range from 15 to 20 percent for men and from 20 to 25 percent for women and rise with age, explains Dickerson. “Most people need to drop about 10 percent below these levels for visible six-packs,” she says. “These numbers are absolutely achievable but not very sustainable for most people’s lifestyles.” And unfortunately, you can’t choose where you lose fat — some people gain and lose weight in their stomachs first; some people in their backs and butts. There’s no way to ensure that you’re losing body fat from your belly, she adds. Do 6-Pack Abs Even Mean You’re Fit? Sure, a six-pack looks nice. But it’s not the be-all and end-all in terms of being fit. “The rectus abdominis is just one of four abdominal muscles and one of eight of the core muscles,” explains Olson. “A strong core is having stability and stamina in the muscles from your hips to your shoulder blades.” There are plenty of really fit people, including professional athletes, who don’t have perfectly flat stomachs or perfectly toned abdominal muscles. Plus, you don’t need visual proof to have a six-pack. “You may very well have a six-­pack, it just might be hidden by a layer of fat,” says Dickerson. “Maybe you’re someone who carries weight in your stomach.” Not being able to see those muscles doesn’t take away any of their power, she explains. And chasing a six-pack for aesthetic reasons can actually be unhealthy. “Six­-packs are proof that you have a very low body fat percentage, but that may mean you’re sacrificing nutrition and not getting the most out of your training sessions,” Dickerson adds. Remember: What your muscles can do is way more important than how they look. So focus on building them up to empower you to do the things you want to do, not so they look a certain way in the mirror.  	   
 Takeaway  	  The Takeaway In addition to being toned, having visible abs also likely requires you to have 10 percent less body fat than the recommended healthy averages for men and women, which is why it can be so hard to develop a noticeable six-pack. Genetic factors also play a part. Some people may never be able to develop visible abs. If you want to tighten up your core and work toward a six-pack, some of the best exercises you can try are jackknives, oblique medicine ball slams, hanging knee tucks, and hanging L-sits. There are also several Pilates- and yoga-based exercises that can help, along with losing belly fat via cardio workouts.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[illustration of man with six pack abs made of men exercising ]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/wellness/salty-taste-in-mouth/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/wellness/salty-taste-in-mouth/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Wellness]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Why Do I Have a Salty Taste in My Mouth?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 19:02:36 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Got a salty taste in your mouth? Chances are it’s nothing too serious, but if the salty taste sticks around and comes with other symptoms, it could be a sign of another health issue.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[It’s expected that a serving of french fries or a Caesar salad might leave a salty taste in your mouth that lingers for a little while after you eat it. But if that sensation persists for hours or days or isn’t linked to a food or drink you had recently, it may be a signal that something else is going on with your health. “Check with your doctor, pharmacist, or even a dentist to see if there could be any dental issues or medication that could be the culprit,” says Lena Bakovic, RD , of Top Nutrition Coaching, based in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.  	   
 Symptoms of a Salty Taste in the Mouth  	  Symptoms  	  It can be frustrating to have a salty taste in your mouth that won’t to away. Your mouth just tastes off, even when you didn’t recently eat anything salty . Your mouth may also feel cottony, Bakovic says. The feeling is similar to when you’re at the dentist and they stuff cotton balls in your mouth. In general, experiencing a salty taste in your mouth — if it’s not related to a recent salty meal or not drinking enough fluids — is a symptom of another potential health issue. You may experience other symptoms alongside the salty taste, depending on the underlying cause (more on that below).   	   
 7 Things That Cause a Salty Taste in the Mouth  	  Causes  	  There are a variety of things that can cause a salty taste in the mouth, and many of the causes are preventable or treatable. The most common culprits include: 1. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Dry mouth (xerostomia) is a condition that’s characterized by saliva glands that fail to make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762946fe9fd7-fbf0-4dcf-bee6-ec18ebe60f8d This can make it difficult to talk or swallow and leaves your mouth feeling sticky, burning, or itchy.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629465cfcb3-9062-4802-aef5-a65aeab875aa Bakovic says dry mouth can also alter the taste in your mouth and make things taste salty or metallic.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762946fe9fd7-fbf0-4dcf-bee6-ec18ebe60f8d Occasional dry mouth is normal, say if you’re nervous or stressed.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629465cfcb3-9062-4802-aef5-a65aeab875aa But if it occurs frequently, it’s worth looking into the underlying cause. Possible causes include tooth decay, certain medications (covered below), nerve damage to the head or neck, radiation, chemotherapy or immunotherapy, or conditions such as diabetes .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629465cfcb3-9062-4802-aef5-a65aeab875aa Menopause is also a common cause of dry mouth.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629922054d4-4848-43e7-944e-f0fea87c263e 2. Dehydration Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluid than it takes in and is unable to function as normal.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629adcf2d30-489a-48e8-8dcf-7535db6dbdf5 Dehydration can cause the saliva to become saltier because there’s less fluid available in your mouth, says Bakovic. Your saliva typically contains some salt, but when you’re not properly hydrated, the salt becomes more prominent, since there isn’t enough water to balance it out.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762946fe9fd7-fbf0-4dcf-bee6-ec18ebe60f8d There are many reasons you can become dehydrated, such as illness accompanied by a fever, diarrhea , or vomiting ; excessive sweating, such as from intense exercise or hot weather; or frequent urination, which could be the result of certain medications or health conditions, such as diabetes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d20be9d2-a71d-4915-a637-5c41a6c0a024 If you keep up patterns of forgetting or skipping drinking water, you’re at significant risk of reaching medically dangerous levels of dehydration, says Bakovic. 3. Periodontal Disease or Untreated Cavities Dental issues can also alter the taste in your mouth, says Erinne Kennedy, DMD, MPH , assistant dean of curriculum and integrated learning and a spokesperson for the American Dental Association. It could be a tooth abscess, which is a pocket of pus in the mouth that’s caused by a bacterial infection. The most common type of abscess is called a periapical abscess, which is typically is caused by not treating a cavity.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296be97104-3c00-4bf6-9003-982f8b29bb52 You might experience fluid in your mouth that smells bad and tastes salty and bad too as a result.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296be97104-3c00-4bf6-9003-982f8b29bb52 “Sometimes, the fluid that forms as a result of the body fighting the infection can taste salty to a patient,” Dr. Kennedy says. Or the salty taste could be a side effect of periodontal disease, Kennedy says. The two main groups of periodontal disease are gingivitis, which is caused by inflammatory issues along the gums, or periodontitis, which is more serious and involves damaged tissue.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629eac898d0-cd81-41ea-9cc2-ef2a4ded9046 4. Nutrient Deficiencies The salty taste in your mouth could also be the result of lacking key nutrients in your diet, most likely vitamin B12 , folate, or vitamin C , Bakovic says. You may also develop nutrient deficiencies because of that salty taste in your mouth. After all, you may not get enough nutrients from food sources or drink adequate fluids if everything tastes like salt, Bakovic says. To find out if you have a vitamin deficiency, you’ll take a blood test at your doctor’s office.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d78f22d3-f7aa-47aa-98db-aa50e6c6cc3e Bakovic says that your doctor can tell you the next steps, such as what dose of the vitamin to take based on your deficiency level. While supplementation can help in the short term, the long-term goal should generally be to get the nutrients you’re missing by eating a balanced diet.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291468fe5f-609f-425f-a8cc-3fda98bf9084 5. Medications Some medications can cause a dry mouth or dehydration, which, as noted above, may lead to taste alterations such as a salty taste, says Kennedy. It’s similar to when sweat dries on your skin, she says. Examples of medications that can have this effect include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762946fe9fd7-fbf0-4dcf-bee6-ec18ebe60f8d Antidepressants , particularly tricyclic antidepressants, which have anticholinergic properties and interfere with the neural pathways and reduce saliva productione60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762912f5b44c-b8b9-4623-97c4-56e6b8e673d5 Antihistamines , which also decrease saliva secretione60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629925fb8d0-ebe1-41c8-b2b5-811019e819fb Chemotherapy , as the salivary glands may be damaged and create less salivae60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a4e76685-303c-4c25-ac0e-e8e46dd67406 Diuretics , which promote frequent urination and can lead to dehydration if you’re not replacing the lost fluidse60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291a54d65a-d345-4cfe-964a-2c2b9a57b723 6. Upper Respiratory Infections Upper respiratory infections, which affect the nose, sinuses , and throat, can cause a postnasal drip, or mucus from the nose that drips down the throat.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292e9f8d54-906f-4a4a-9f67-360b559704db Postnasal drip can alter your sense of taste and leave your mouth feeling salty.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762946fe9fd7-fbf0-4dcf-bee6-ec18ebe60f8d But it’s worth noting that if an upper respiratory infection is causing a salty taste in the mouth, it’ll commonly be accompanied by other symptoms, such as a cough , urge to clear your throat, or frequent swallowing.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292e9f8d54-906f-4a4a-9f67-360b559704db 7. Sjögren’s Syndrome Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system targets the glands that keep parts of the body moist, including the eyes and mouth.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762970f5977e-7f7c-4e85-a9f4-f3f2366fa7dc The result? Dry eyes and a dry mouth, which can make talking and eating difficult and can alter the taste in your mouth.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762970f5977e-7f7c-4e85-a9f4-f3f2366fa7dc You may also experience other symptoms, such as joint pain, dry skin or rashes, fatigue, and tingling in your fingers and toes.  	   
 Treating a Salty Taste in the Mouth  	  Treatment  	  Oftentimes, there’s no need to panic if you’re experiencing a salty taste and no other symptoms. Chances are you’re dehydrated or experiencing dry mouth.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297dffc1c7-8e9e-43bf-93ec-d024aed6725e To treat dehydration, you’ll need to hydrate and replace the lost fluids.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629544bbe7d-b057-4c53-a3f9-d16fb2d6db70 Water or sports drinks are best, as juice and soft drinks can worsen diarrhea if you’re experiencing that side effect as well.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629544bbe7d-b057-4c53-a3f9-d16fb2d6db70 For severe cases of dehydration, it may be necessary to visit the emergency room to receive an IV of salts and fluids, which are absorbed quickly.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629544bbe7d-b057-4c53-a3f9-d16fb2d6db70 To alleviate dry mouth, try:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297c780df5-7370-407c-a38d-80b912b8521b Increasing your daily fluid intake by sipping water throughout the day Switching to caffeine-free drinks, since caffeine can make your mouth drier Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy Using a mouthwash that contains xylitol and avoiding those that contain alcohol Taking an over-the-counter saliva substitute that contains xylitol Breathing through your nose rather than your mouth Using a humidifier in your bedroom But if the salty taste appears alongside other concerning symptoms, such as a hoarse voice, lump in your neck, swelling in the salivary glands, difficulty eating and swallowing, or other health conditions (like diabetes, heart or kidney disease, or an autoimmune condition), you should seek help from a healthcare provider.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297dffc1c7-8e9e-43bf-93ec-d024aed6725e In general, if your salty mouth persists for more than a few days, it’s time to seek care. Kennedy suggests visiting a primary care physician or a dentist. “The dentist can refer you to your primary doctor if needed,” she says, A dentist may prescribe a fluoride toothpaste that can help and can check for tooth decay or other dental problems.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297c780df5-7370-407c-a38d-80b912b8521b Speak with your doctor if you suspect that the medication you’re taking is leading to the salty taste in your mouth. They may be able to prescribe an alternative medicine that does not cause that side effect, Bakovic says. Finally, if the doctor suspects a health condition is to blame, he or she may explore specific routes of treating that particular issue. For instance, if you have Sjögren’s syndrome, the dentist or doctor may prescribe pilocarpine (Salagen) or cevimeline (Evoxac) to boost saliva production, Bakovic says.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290fdc04d8-5667-44f3-b6ec-425939e3bd9ee60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d1725f61-69c8-47f1-976d-d8e5d466364e  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Dry mouth, dehydration, medication side effects, an untreated cavity, and other things are all potential causes of an unpleasant salty taste in the mouth. It’s generally nothing to worry about, and hydrating or a home remedy such as chewing sugar-free gum or using a saliva substitute with xylitol should help. If the salty taste persists or you’re experiencing other concerning symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek medical help to identify the cause and get appropriate treatment.  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/norovirus-spikes-in-us-as-stomach-bug-hits-hard/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/norovirus-spikes-in-us-as-stomach-bug-hits-hard/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Infectious Diseases]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Norovirus Spikes in U.S. as Stomach Bug Hits Hard]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:36:20 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[U.S. outbreaks this year are more than double what they were at the same time last year with the stomach virus causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Winter is not only a time when respiratory viruses like the flu and RSV flourish, it is also the season for severe gastrointestinal illness caused by the highly contagious norovirus . The latest data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that outbreaks this year may be more widespread than last year.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b19369c8-f33a-43b5-a342-43811c215343 CDC tracking from 14 states shows that 91 outbreaks were recorded in the beginning of December 2024, which is more than double the maximum average reported for the same week during the previous three years. The most recent count is also a jump from the week prior, when 69 outbreaks were tallied by state health departments. Other CDC monitoring of viral activity indicates that more than 22 percent of norovirus tests were positive for the week ending December 28. About 12 percent were positive during the same week a year before.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629df98acaf-cd53-45a2-b294-efcefc524471 Last month, the Minnesota Department of Health identified more than 40 norovirus outbreaks — almost twice the usual number.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290dcd8308-de0b-4d65-95a3-61f140f48eee West Virginia Department of Health reported a 65 percent increase in the number of norovirus cases in the state from November to December 2024, nearly double the average number of cases for that time period.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293a3a606c-561e-47f5-af20-e446ff7c7bc8 Colorado also noted that it is experiencing a higher-than-usual number of norovirus outbreaks.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f79c9979-9ba3-4516-b390-afc69f0121bc “We’re seeing a ton of vomiting and diarrhea right now because of norovirus,” says Erica Prochaska, MD , a pediatric infectious diseases specialist with Johns Hopkins Children’s Center in Baltimore. “This stomach virus typically becomes more common during the winter months when people are inside and close to each other, and we’re seeing it surge more now compared to other years.” Norovirus Is Often Transmitted Through Food Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from acute gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines) in the United States and is responsible for more than half of all cases of foodborne illness .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298a1d58e6-faca-4107-9041-3da7fbed8508 The vomiting and diarrhea are a driving force behind the quick and easy spread of the disease. A person who is ill can shed billions of microscopic norovirus particles in their vomit and feces, and it only takes a few of these to make someone else sick.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762923617f1a-bdc8-4a34-8de5-ae9d4e182974 Norovirus can also spread when a sick person exhales airborne droplets carrying the virus.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a864a1cc-d6ee-4120-8cb2-0432cc6e113e Uncooked food can transmit norovirus. This month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about norovirus risk from Washington state oysters .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c7cc9720-c53b-4823-9a71-326a605109ab Other foods commonly involved in norovirus outbreaks are leafy greens, fresh fruit, and other shellfish (such as clams, geoducks, mussels, and scallops).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293ff1229c-1816-4620-8567-b573e0863ef6 Food workers are a common source of virus spread as they may touch ready-to-eat foods (such as raw fruits and vegetables) before serving them. They can also spread illness by handling any kind of food (raw or cooked), utensils, or surfaces, or by touching other people. “Norovirus can persist for fairly long times on inanimate surfaces like a stair railing, doorknobs, and other objects like that,” says Dean Winslow, MD , an infectious-disease specialist and a professor of medicine at Stanford University in California. Restaurants, Schools, and Cruises Are Norovirus Hot Spots Because contaminated food is a major source of norovirus, restaurants and catered events are common settings for outbreaks. Outbreaks often occur in healthcare facilities, schools, and childcare centers where people are living and working in close quarters with shared spaces and surfaces that are frequently touched.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762910267ae0-a2c6-4f7b-853c-3a1e8c1be664 Norovirus is also the most frequent cause of outbreaks of diarrheal disease on cruise ships, leading some to joke that it gives new meaning to the term “poop deck.” At the beginning of this month, norovirus sickened at least 86 passengers aboard a Holland America ship, and there were at least a dozen more norovirus outbreaks aboard cruise ships in 2024.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d4102c7a-aa6c-4cb7-9124-06454cef4b89 Dr. Winslow attributes the rise in cases in part to people interacting, traveling, and gathering together more following the isolated and more cautious times of the COVID-19 pandemic. “People are back out there living their lives, going to bars, restaurants, and on cruises, and this may be a factor in the spread of norovirus,” he says. Symptoms of Norovirus Can Come on Quickly While typical norovirus symptoms include stomach pain, fever, and body aches, the illness is notable for vomiting , nausea, and diarrhea. The symptoms can come on suddenly and dramatically then generally abate after one to three days.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762922e2ba64-79ce-41a8-85d6-534b53b2b538 “Compared to many of the other viruses that cause gastrointestinal infections, norovirus causes prominent nausea and vomiting during the first day of illness — even more prominent than the diarrhea,” says Winslow. While most people get better in a few days with rest and plenty of hydration, the very young and those 65 and older are most likely to experience severe effects. On average, norovirus causes 465,000 emergency department visits each year, mostly in young children, and 900 deaths annually, mainly among adults age 65 and older.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b05d5498-e93b-4190-ab6a-b87e76f2daab How to Stop Norovirus Spread To help prevent the transmission of norovirus, the CDC recommends that you:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298f87deba-d1c2-4688-a347-1fff1c24d8dc Wash your hands well. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers; before eating, preparing, or handling food; and before giving yourself or someone else medicine. “The virus does not wash off of hands with sanitizer very well — it really requires a good scrub with soap and water,” says Dr. Prochaska. If sick, do not prepare food or care for others. Wait at least two days (48 hours) after symptoms stop. Studies, however, have shown that you can still spread norovirus for two weeks or more after you feel better. Clean and disinfect surfaces and wash clothes. The virus can survive on practically any surface — in some cases, up to 12 hours on hard surfaces and up to 12 days on carpet. Disinfecting can help.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d512412f-760b-48e5-9cc1-2743c41d5868 The CDC notes there is currently no vaccine to prevent norovirus.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292b1d6877-48c9-4371-9281-5416423d75da In the weeks ahead, Prochaska encourages the public to keep up with preventive practices. “I think we’re still in the thick of things,” she says. “We typically see a lot of transmission through the colder months, and then things let up in the early to mid spring.”  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/sexually-transmitted-diseases/hepatitis-b-vaccine/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/sexually-transmitted-diseases/hepatitis-b-vaccine/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Hepatitis B Vaccine: What You Need to Know]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:04:21 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[The hepatitis B vaccine protects your liver from infection with a contagious virus. Learn who is and isn’t eligible and when to get vaccinated.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The hepatitis B vaccine protects against liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This virus is highly contagious and can spread through exposure to blood, semen, and other bodily fluids. While most people will have hepatitis B for a short period of time before their immune system eliminates it, hepatitis B can sometimes become long-lasting (chronic). If not properly managed, chronic hepatitis B has the potential to lead to liver inflammation, liver disease (cirrhosis) , and liver cancer.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c5006cbb-fab4-4a13-b4e2-536927a9cbf0 While there is no cure for chronic hepatitis B, there are treatments to help manage the condition as well as a safe and effective vaccine.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c5006cbb-fab4-4a13-b4e2-536927a9cbf0  	   
 Overview  	  What It Is  	  What Is the Hepatitis B Vaccine? The hepatitis B vaccine is made in a lab using yeast cells to produce many copies of a protein that sits on the surface of the hepatitis B virus. The vaccine prompts a person’s immune system to create antibodies that can recognize and defend against the hepatitis B virus should there be a future exposure.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291bbd89c7-fa37-40a4-912e-789e1563ae87 Hepatitis B vaccination usually requires several doses (shots), all of which are needed for full protection.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d11f4d82-648d-4234-bdc4-09ced611e0cd  	   
 Who Should Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?  	  Who Should Get It  	  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that nearly everyone get the hepatitis B vaccine series, including:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293a2da88f-ad06-4581-b001-d03b5cae2f26 All infants All children and adolescents younger than 19 who have not been vaccinated Adults ages 19 to 59 Adults ages 60 and older at higher risk for hepatitis B Anyone can get hepatitis B, but those at higher risk include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762949b0d08c-fbd1-4354-b60e-7cdb02039376 Infants born to people with hepatitis B People born in certain countries where hepatitis B is common People born in the United States who were not vaccinated against hepatitis B and whose parents are from countries where hepatitis B rates are high People who have hepatitis C People who have sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV People who are on dialysis People who have liver damage or inflammation People who have been in jail or prison People who inject drugs or share needles, syringes, or other drug equipment Sex partners of people who have hepatitis B Men who have sex with men People who live with someone who has hepatitis B Healthcare and public safety workers who are exposed to blood on the job The CDC recommends the hepatitis B vaccine for anyone who is pregnant and has not previously received it. A pregnant person who has hepatitis B or is a carrier of the hepatitis B virus can pass it to their baby during childbirth.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762992d3b5f5-3103-4fb8-8efe-3b46cea148c9  	   
 Who Shouldn’t Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine?  	  Who Shouldn’t Get It  	  Most people can safely receive the hepatitis B vaccine, but there are a few exceptions:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762919bc1e4f-d5b1-4522-8f99-23e6995332a2 People with severe allergies to yeast: Since the vaccine is produced using yeast cells, anyone with a severe yeast allergy should avoid it. People with a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of the hepatitis B vaccine: If you had an allergic reaction to the vaccine in the past, talk to your doctor about whether you should be vaccinated again. People who are sick: If you are moderately or severely ill you should wait until you recover before getting the vaccine. If you have a minor issue like a cold, it’s okay to get a vaccine dose.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fc174124-e761-4d8a-8c36-3792d562fae2  	   
 What Are the Different Types of Hepatitis B Vaccine?  	  Different Types  	  There are seven vaccines available in the United States that protect against hepatitis B:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bd8f3343-b1cf-48ab-8f1a-f20b91ace5cb Hepatitis B–Only Vaccines Engerix-B for infants, children, and adults Heplisav-B for adults PreHevbrio for adults Recombivax HB for infants, children, and adults Combination Vaccines Pediarix for infants and young children: protects against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, and polio as well as hepatitis B Vaxelis for infants and young children: protects against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, and Hib disease as well as hepatitis B Twinrix for adults: protects against both hepatitis A and hepatitis B  	   
 When to Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine  	  When to Get  	  Infants and Children Vaccination Schedule For people 18 years old and younger it’s recommended that a vaccination series begins at birth. Typically, a three-dose series involves a shot at age 0, 1 to 2 months, and 6 to 18 months. Infants who don’t receive a birth dose should begin the series as soon as possible. Infants born to a mother who has hepatitis B should receive the birth dose of the vaccine along with hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) in separate arms within 12 hours of birth. Catch-up vaccinations in children who never received the vaccine as an infant typically involve a three-dose series. Adolescents ages 11 to 15 years old may get an alternative two-dose schedule with at least four months between doses with adult formulation Recombivax HB only.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762934c39e19-77db-4804-994b-ea3f9ce151b0 Adult Vaccination Schedule Adults ages 19 and older need to complete a series of two, three, or four shots, depending on the brand of vaccine. A two-dose series of Heplisav-B used at least four weeks apart A three-dose series of Engerix-B, PreHevbrio, or Recombivax HB at 0, 1, and 6 months (minimum intervals: dose one to dose two is 4 weeks; dose two to dose three is 8 weeks; dose one to dose three is 16 weeks) A three-dose series of HepA-HepB (Twinrix at 0, 1, 6 months [minimum intervals: dose one to dose two is 4 weeks; dose two to dose three is 5 months]) A four-dose series of HepA-HepB (Twinrix) accelerated schedule of three doses at 0, 7, and 21 to 30 days, followed by a booster dose at 12 monthse60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295b08b993-b897-4f19-b0b0-718eeccbd843 People in special situations, such as people traveling on short notice or emergency responders to disaster areas, may be able to receive the hepatitis B vaccine on an accelerated schedule.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629331d9de0-df6f-47be-93e7-93599cf896ac Heplisav-B and PreHevbrio are not recommended in pregnancy due to lack of safety data in pregnant persons.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295b08b993-b897-4f19-b0b0-718eeccbd843  	   
 How Well Does the Hepatitis B Vaccine Work?  	  How Well It Works  	  The hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective. After completing the full vaccination series, a person will be from 80 to 100 percent protected against hepatitis B.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ee9d903c-3689-4284-a324-17785cc579ed Anyone who does not respond to initial vaccination should talk to a healthcare provider about whether to get a second series of shots.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295b493379-7a82-499f-b0ad-f2efddb17e3c  	   
 How Long Does the Hepatitis B Vaccine Last?  	  The hepatitis B vaccine offers long-lasting protection. For most people, immunity lasts at least 20 years, and some studies show it could last a lifetime. However, it’s important to check your immunity status with a blood test if you are at high risk or have specific health concerns.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762961004dab-fcbe-4f53-a168-3c0fe891ac4f  	   
 Do Adults Need a Hepatitis B Booster Shot?  	  Most adults who received the full series of hepatitis B vaccinations do not need a booster shot as long as their immune system is functioning normally.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762958fd844c-83aa-41bc-8a8a-009900526ce3  	   
 Hepatitis B Vaccine Safety and Side Effects  	  Safety and Side Effects  	  The hepatitis B vaccine is safe. It has been extensively studied and has been used worldwide for decades. It is one of the safest vaccines available.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f9b3c0e6-4655-4efe-a832-09592a6a3954 Like all vaccines, the hepatitis B vaccine can cause side effects , but they are usually mild and go away within a few days. Possible side effects include: Pain, a rash, or swelling at the injection site Mild fever Fatigue or headache In rare cases, people may experience a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) . If you experience any serious issues, such as trouble breathing or swelling of the throat, seek medical attention immediately. If you have concerns about vaccine side effects or allergies, discuss them with your healthcare provider.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ee2519d7-66b6-433f-8f46-21ce73bfd85b  	   
 Can the Vaccine Give You Hepatitis B?  	  The hepatitis B vaccine cannot give you hepatitis B because it does not contain live virus. It is designed to help your immune system recognize and fight the virus if you are exposed in the future.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762955b3b723-53e0-4860-875a-22d6dc4a69e6  	   
 Hepatitis B Vaccine Cost and Insurance Coverage  	  Cost  	  Most insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover the full cost of the vaccine. All U.S. health insurance marketplace plans cover certain vaccines, including the hepatitis B vaccine.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629492d9643-68fc-47a2-9c0e-a243b2a9edac Medicare Part B covers hepatitis B shots if you’re at medium to high risk for hepatitis B.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297483295d-d2ba-4f5a-9003-3faf8725a452 If you don’t have insurance, you may also be able to get the vaccine for free at local health clinics or through programs that provide vaccines to uninsured or underinsured individuals. Eligible children who aren’t covered by health insurance can get no-cost vaccines through the federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762980b451a3-e6ff-4b61-b543-4ae53c59c7a5 If you don’t have insurance or qualify for assistance, the cost of the hepatitis B vaccine will vary depending on where you receive it. At the CVS on-site vaccine clinic, the hepatitis B series costs $172.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762993439dec-a043-4bcb-a302-78312e0e8007  	   
 Where to Get a Hepatitis B Vaccine Near You  	  Where to Get  	  You can get the hepatitis B vaccine at many healthcare providers’ offices, pharmacies, and local health departments. Visit Vaccines.gov to find a location near you.  	   
 The Takeaway  	   Hepatitis B is a potentially serious liver disease, but it is preventable with a highly effective vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for everyone, including pregnant women, and is especially important for people at high risk of contracting the virus. The vaccine is safe, with only mild and temporary side effects, and provides long-lasting protection.   	   
 Resources We Trust  	  Mayo Clinic: Hepatitis BCleveland Clinic: Hepatitis BCenters for Disease Control and Prevention: Hepatitis BWorld Health Organization: Hepatitis BYale Medicine: Hepatitis B and C  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/hernia/during-pregnancy/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/hernia/during-pregnancy/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Digestive Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Hernia During Pregnancy]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:59:49 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[A hernia happens when an organ or other tissue pushes through a weakened layer of muscle. Pregnant women are at increased risk of hernias.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[A hernia during pregnancy occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle, creating a bulge. Common types include umbilical hernias (near the belly button) and inguinal hernias (in the groin area).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c8e9560d-964f-4388-aa49-7c7fdc8c7978 Pregnancy can increase the risk of hernias. This is because your growing uterus increases abdominal pressure and hormonal changes relax your muscles. While not always serious, it's important to have a healthcare professional evaluate a hernia for proper care.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629788a7b28-a3d3-41fc-9ceb-cf4bc8904e40  	   
 Where Does a Hernia During Pregnancy Typically Develop?  	  Location  	  Although hernias during pregnancy are rare, they most commonly found in the abdomen, particularly around the belly button or navel. Called umbilical hernias, these occur when tissue or part of the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall near the navel, often due to the increased pressure from a growing uterus.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b296a3f4-8bf2-4fac-b1cd-8d7cad5e9589 Inguinal hernias (near the groin) are less common and occur when tissue bulges through a weak spot in the lower abdomen or groin area. This type of hernia can be more noticeable during physical activity or when coughing, as the added strain puts pressure on the weakened area.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b296a3f4-8bf2-4fac-b1cd-8d7cad5e9589   	   
 Signs and Symptoms of Hernia During Pregnancy  	  Symptoms  	  The signs and symptoms of a hernia during pregnancy can vary depending on its location and severity. Sometimes you may not have any symptoms at all. Common symptoms include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294f9fa825-6123-4174-8391-f0fc6601a643 A Visible Bulge or Lump Often near the belly button or in the groin area, a lump may become more noticeable when coughing, laughing, or straining. Pain or Discomfort Mild to moderate pain or a feeling of pressure may occur in the affected area, especially when moving or lifting. Swelling or Tenderness The area around the hernia may feel swollen or tender to touch. Nausea or Vomiting If the hernia involves the intestine, it can cause digestive issues, such as nausea or vomiting , particularly if the intestine becomes trapped (incarcerated). Constipation or Difficulty Passing Stool In some cases, a hernia may lead to digestive issues, including constipation , as a result of pressure on the bowel. If you experience severe pain or a sudden increase in bulge size, it's important to seek medical attention, as these may be a sign of more serious complications .  	   
 Causes and Risk Factors of Hernia During Pregnancy  	  Causes  	  Pregnancy may contribute to a hernia because of the physical changes it causes. These and other factors contribute to the likelihood of developing a hernia during pregnancy. Causes of Hernia During Pregnancy Normal bodily changes during pregnancy don’t always cause hernias. But sometimes the factors below may cause a hernia to occur during pregnancy:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762922024eb9-1d64-4285-b387-14a0c82ea071 Increased Intra-Abdominal Pressure The growing uterus puts pressure on the abdominal wall. Weakened Abdominal Muscles Pregnancy stretches and weakens the muscles of the abdominal wall. Hormonal Changes Pregnancy hormones, like relaxin, can soften tissues and ligaments. Previous Surgery or Scar Tissue Previous abdominal surgery can create weak spots in the abdominal wall. Rapid Weight Gain Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can increase abdominal pressure. Risk Factors of Hernia During Pregnancy Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing a hernia during pregnancy. These risk factors include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629dd0919c4-92d6-437c-97f1-f9450fb06d9e Multiple pregnancies Obesity Advanced maternal age (over 35 years) Previous hernia history Heavy lifting or physical strain  	   
 Are There Different Types of Hernias During Pregnancy?  	  Types  	  In general, there are several types of hernias. Any of these types can develop during pregnancy, although some are quite rare. Each type occurs in different areas of the body, and the symptoms may vary depending on the specific location and severity of the hernia. Below are the common types of hernias that can occur during pregnancy:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f27f6a33-82f0-434a-96c1-03707464a96c Umbilical hernia Inguinal hernia Incisional hernia, which occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision such as a healed C-section scar Diaphragmatic hernia, a rare occurrence when part of the intestines or stomach moves into the chest cavity through the diaphragm  	   
 Is Hernia During Pregnancy Serious?  	  Serious or Benign?  	  In most cases, doctors will simply monitor your hernia, as it doesn’t pose an immediate risk to you or your baby. Many pregnant women experience mild hernia symptoms — or none at all — that require no urgent medical intervention. However, some hernias, particularly if they cause pain or become incarcerated (when the tissue becomes trapped), may require more attention and treatment. A hernia can become serious if it leads to complications such as bowel obstruction, strangulation (where blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off), or infection. These conditions can pose risks to both mother and baby, and may require immediate surgery. It’s essential to let your healthcare provider know right away if you have severe pain or swelling at the site of your hernia, or any signs of complications such as fever and unusual nausea or vomiting.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b483f5e4-c162-4110-865a-9e5e81b4e9c4  	   
 How Is Hernia During Pregnancy Diagnosed?  	  Diagnosis  	  Doctors typically diagnose a hernia during pregnancy through a symptom history and physical exam. In many cases, a healthcare provider can identify a hernia based on its characteristic bulge and tenderness. However, to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other potential causes of symptoms, your doctor might need to order further tests. These may include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e3780186-4659-4e35-85f5-757e80b693c1e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629680659c8-c492-4f7d-a221-8054ed951932 Physical Examination The first step in diagnosing a hernia during pregnancy is usually a physical exam. During this exam, your healthcare provider will touch your abdomen to feel for any bulging or tenderness, especially near the belly button or groin. You may need to change positions for your provider to see and feel your hernia. A basic physical exam is often sufficient to diagnose a hernia, particularly if you have symptoms such as pain or pressure in the area. Ultrasound If the physical exam doesn’t provide enough information or your doctor can’t easily see or feel the hernia, the next step is typically an ultrasound. This noninvasive imaging test can provide clear visuals of the abdominal area. This allows your healthcare provider to see if there’s any protruding tissue and to confirm the location and size of the hernia. Ultrasound is safe during pregnancy and is the preferred imaging technique for assessing hernias. CT Scan In rare cases, if your doctor suspects complications, they might recommend a computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses X-rays to produce 2D cross-sectional images of the body’s soft tissues, bones, and blood vessels. Medical personnel can then “stack” these images to produce 3D models of specific body parts. However, doctors usually avoid these tests during pregnancy unless necessary, as they expose the mother to radiation. Doctor typically only order CT scans when other diagnostic approaches are inconclusive. MRI if the hernia is difficult to assess with other methods, your doctor might recommend a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) . An MRI uses radio waves and powerful magnets to create detailed images of areas of the body. By combining the methods above, a healthcare provider can accurately diagnose a hernia and determine the best course of action for treatment, if necessary.  	   
 What Is the Treatment for a Hernia During Pregnancy?  	  Treatment  	  Treatment for a hernia during pregnancy largely depends on the severity of the hernia and stage of pregnancy. Doctors typically recommend conservative management and postpone surgery, if needed, until after delivery.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297c64acee-9721-4a53-91a7-4db4d6cd011be60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762940ba651c-431f-40ee-930c-eb737e96cf59 Conservative Management Most women with a hernia during pregnancy do well with conservative management, such as rest and no heavy lifting, and do not require medical or surgical interventions. Some people use an abdominal binder or belly band, which can relieve pressure on the hernia. Talk to your doctor before using one of these to be sure it’s safe for you. Surgical Intervention Postpartum Doctors typically recommend waiting until after delivery to have surgery unless the hernia cuts off blood flow to trapped tissue (strangulation and incarceration). Surgery may be necessary if the hernia causes significant complications But in most cases, doctors delay any necessary surgery until postpartum. After delivery, surgeons may repair the hernia using minimally invasive procedures, depending on its size and location. Observation and Monitoring In some cases, particularly for women with smaller hernias with no symptoms, doctors may choose to monitor the condition instead of providing immediate treatment. Some doctors call this the “wait and watch” approach. Your doctor can track changes in size or symptoms at your regular prenatal checkups, and more frequently if necessary. If the hernia doesn’t cause significant problems, your doctor may recommend routine observation throughout your pregnancy.  	   
 Are There Any Complications Related to a Hernia During Pregnancy?  	  Complications  	  While hernias during pregnancy are ‌manageable, there are potential complications that could arise. Some complications may require immediate medical attention, so it's important to stay aware of any changes in symptoms. Possible complications include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296c1f5326-560f-4147-89b6-f55115f9f96ce60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290bb7d0b1-560f-4673-9320-09e9d669f831 Strangulation This occurs when a portion of the intestine or tissue becomes trapped in the hernia and loses its blood supply. Strangulation can lead to tissue death and is a medical emergency. If you experience severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever, seek immediate medical care. Incarceration An incarcerated hernia happens when the tissue or organs trapped in the hernia can’t be pushed back into place. While less immediately dangerous than strangulation, incarceration can cause discomfort and may require surgical intervention to prevent further issues. Increased Discomfort or Pain As your pregnancy progresses, your growing uterus can place additional pressure on the hernia, leading to increased pain or swelling. This discomfort might interfere with daily activities and could require treatment for relief. Hernia Enlargement In some cases, the hernia may grow in size during pregnancy. This can lead to increased risk of complications, especially if it affects vital organs or causes significant pain. If any of these complications occur, or if you notice changes in your hernia’s size, color, or pain level, contact your doctor right away.  	   
 Can You Prevent a Hernia During Pregnancy?  	  Prevention  	  While not all hernias are preventable during pregnancy, you can take steps to reduce your risk and minimize the chances of complications. Here are some ways you can help prevent a hernia during pregnancy:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b3ca8f2b-36d7-49e7-991b-fb581b29d08b Maintain a healthy weight. Avoid heavy lifting. Strengthen your core muscles. Wear supportive garments. Prevent constipation.  	   
 The Takeaway  	   A hernia during pregnancy typically occurs when part of the intestine or abdominal tissue pushes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall, commonly near the belly button (umbilical) or groin (inguinal). While many hernias during pregnancy are mild and manageable, they can become serious if complications like strangulation or obstruction arise. If you experience severe pain, vomiting, or noticeable bulging, seek immediate medical attention. Preventive measures such as maintaining healthy pregnancy weight gain, avoiding heavy lifting, and strengthening your core can help reduce the risk of developing a hernia. If you suspect a hernia during pregnancy or experience any concerning symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.   	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[pregnant woman holding top and side of stomach talking to doctor]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/medical-procedures/what-to-eat-after-a-colonoscopy/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/medical-procedures/what-to-eat-after-a-colonoscopy/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Medical Procedures]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[What to Eat After a Colonoscopy: Foods to Eat and Avoid]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:58:52 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Discover which foods can help soothe your gut post-colonoscopy and aid recovery.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Before a colonoscopy , it’s important to follow any dietary instructions your doctor gives you so your bowels are fully prepped for the procedure. But did you know that what you eat after a colonoscopy matters, too? “During a colonoscopy, the colon is cleared of all its contents, which disrupts the natural balance of bacteria in the digestive system,” says Bharat Pothuri, MD, a gastroenterologist with Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston. “Consuming gentle, easily digestible foods helps the gut recover and return to normal functioning without irritation,” says Dr. Pothuri. And while no foods are strictly off limits after a colonoscopy in general, you may want to temporarily limit or avoid certain foods that are more likely to irritate your gut than others.  	   
 What Are the Best Foods to Eat After a Colonoscopy?  	  Best Foods to Eat  	  After a colonoscopy, some people may feel bloated or pass a lot of gas.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762952fc834f-f64d-40c1-8334-e1a66f370de4 Sometimes the medications used for sedation during a colonoscopy can also make people feel nauseous afterward and not interested in eating, says Lance Uradomo, MD, MPH , an interventional gastroenterologist at City of Hope Orange County in Irvine, California. “Feeling bloated or gassy after a colonoscopy might also make some people not have a big appetite right away,” Dr. Uradomo adds. “These feelings are normal and should resolve on their own, but contact your doctor if they persist.” To manage these symptoms, easing back into a normal diet by starting with small, light meals can help. Some examples of foods that are often easy on the digestive tract, says Pothuri, include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294b987b99-4734-4a72-b9b0-b592f3a6884ee60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762979902783-c109-4127-a060-42f43d1ea4f3 Applesauce Mashed potatoes Bananas Scrambled eggs without any added dairy products or seasonings Yogurt Plain, lightly salted, or unseasoned crackers White bread Chicken noodle soup Pudding White rice Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, soft tofu, or fish “[Foods like these] help ease digestion and restore balance to the gastrointestinal system after the procedure,” Pothuri says. Hydration is also extremely important following a colonoscopy. “Patients may be slightly dehydrated from the bowel prep process,” Pothuri says. “Drinking plenty of fluids and consuming foods with high water content helps replenish lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration.” If you get anesthesia for the procedure, you’ll likely be given intravenous (IV) fluids which help replete fluid loss, says Morgan Allyn Sendzischew Shane, MD , a gastroenterologist with the University of Miami Health System in Florida. “Still, we always recommend patients rehydrate after procedures with whatever they usually use to stay hydrated,” she says. Some examples liquids that can help you stay hydrated after a colonoscopy, says Pothuri, are:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294b987b99-4734-4a72-b9b0-b592f3a6884ee60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762979902783-c109-4127-a060-42f43d1ea4f3 Water Clear, plain broths Herbal tea without cream or milk Electrolyte drinks Apple juice If you don’t like the taste of regular water, you can also try diluting some coconut water, Dr. Sendzischew Shane suggests. “There is no set amount we recommend to drink after a colonoscopy,” she adds. “A good rule of thumb with hydration in general is to watch the color of your urine. If your urine is clear or lightly yellow tinged, you are probably okay. Dark urine indicates that you need to drink more.”  	   
 What Foods Should You Limit or Avoid After a Colonoscopy?  	  Foods to Avoid  	  As mentioned, while no foods are strictly off limits in general following a colonoscopy, you may want to limit or avoid foods that can irritate your digestive tract for a few days. “The idea is to avoid foods that will cause any nausea, bloating, or stomach pain to become worse,” Uradomo says. Some examples, Uradomo notes, may include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299087c2fa-3855-4d9a-8d78-46c5c6824d12e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299cb1e6ee-4970-41bc-8ca6-a357708c1dc2e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f1b2888c-1967-4e01-89cb-f6b45f8c5ba5 High- fiber foods like whole grains, raw vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds (Fiber can be rough on the intestines, especially after a colonoscopy. That’s why it’s best to stick to low-fiber options like white bread and white rice as opposed to whole grains like whole-wheat bread or brown rice, Pothuri says. Thad said, high-fiber foods in general are good for gut health and should be incorporated back into your diet after a few days.) Greasy, fatty, or fried foods like fried chicken, french fries, and hamburgers Strong seasonings or spicy foods Uncooked or gas-inducing vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, onions, or garlic Red meats like steak There are certain beverages you may also want to avoid because they can worsen gas, bloating, and intestinal irritation. According to Pothuri, these may include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299087c2fa-3855-4d9a-8d78-46c5c6824d12e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f1b2888c-1967-4e01-89cb-f6b45f8c5ba5 Carbonated drinks, including soda and sparkling water Caffeinated beverages , such as coffee with cream Alcohol (“It’s important not to drink alcohol for 24 hours after a colonoscopy because it can have a negative interaction with the sedatives still in your system,” Uradomo notes.)  	   
 When Can I Return to My Regular Diet After a Colonoscopy?  	  Returning to Regular Diet  	  Colonoscopy recovery is usually fairly quick. Most people can expect to feel like themselves again shortly after the procedure. “Most people can return to their normal diet within 24 to 48 hours after a colonoscopy, depending on their overall health and how their body responds to the procedure,” Pothuri says. Some signs you're ready to begin eating normally again, says Pothuri, include: You’re no longer feeling bloated, gassy, or experiencing abdominal cramps. Your bowel movements have returned to normal. You’re no longer experiencing nausea or fatigue. “Even if you feel better, it’s a good idea to reintroduce foods gradually,” Pothuri notes. “Start with soft, easily digestible foods and add in more complex or fiber-rich foods slowly to monitor how your body responds.” That said, if you have an underlying digestive condition or experienced complications during the colonoscopy, you may need a longer period of recovery before returning to a normal diet. “It’s always best to follow any specific recommendations from your healthcare provider based on your individual circumstances,” Pothuri says.  	   
 The Takeaway  	   While no foods are strictly off-limits after a colonoscopy, it can help to eat gentle, easily digestible foods for the first day or two post-procedure and temporarily avoid foods that can cause gut irritation, such as high-fiber foods, greasy foods, or spicy foods. Some examples of easily digestible foods include applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, yogurt, white rice, bananas, and lean proteins like chicken or tofu, among others. Hydration is key, so prioritize drinking plenty of fluids like water, herbal tea, or clear broths to replenish your body.   	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[bananas repeated bowl of white rice fork grabbing plain scrambled eggs stack of plain white bread pattern of plain round crackers]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/kratom/risks-side-effects/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/kratom/risks-side-effects/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Pain Management]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Kratom Side Effects: Risks to Know]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:58:45 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[From short-term agitation to long-term risks like liver damage: learn about kratom side effects, health risks, and safer alternatives.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The Food and Drug Administration has warned the public about the health risks of kratom use.   	   
 Kratom is an herbal product made from the dried leaves of a Southeast Asian tree called Mitragyna speciosa .  	   
 Usage  	   How Is Kratom Used and Consumed? Kratom has been used both as a stimulant — to increase mental alertness, concentration, or physical energy — and as an analgesic to treat chronic pain. ( 1 ) Some people report using kratom to help aid withdrawal from opioid painkillers, though there’s little published research to suggest that kratom is an effective treatment for opioid withdrawal. ( 2 ) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says there are no approved medical uses for kratom at this time and has issued several recent warnings about kratom’s potential side effects. ( 3 ) These may include addiction and signs of physical and psychological dependence. (3) Why Is Kratom Considered Risky or Controversial? Two hundred and sixty-three people called U.S. poison centers in 2015 after using kratom-containing products, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Common complaints associated with kratom use included: a rapid heart beat, feeling agitated, or feeling nauseous. ( 4 ) What to Consider About Kratom Risks and Possible Side Effects The American Kratom Association, a kratom industry group, cautions that kratom use might not be safe for pregnant women and children. ( 5 ) Here’s what you need to know about kratom side effects and how to keep yourself safe.   	   
 Short-Term  	  Short-Term Side Effects Related to Kratom Use Scientists say the effects of kratom can vary by dose, with small amounts of kratom (1 to 5 grams of raw leaves) causing stimulant effects and higher doses of kratom (5 to 15 grams) causing pain-relieving and sedative effects similar to those of a prescription opioid, according to an article published in 2015 in the journal BioMed Research International . ( 6 ) Powder, Pill, Infusion, or Chew: How Is Kratom Consumed or Used? Kratom can be taken as a pill or capsule. Dried or powdered leaves also can be chewed, smoked, or mixed into beverages. What Does a Kratom High Feel Like? Users start to feel kratom effects pretty quickly — usually within about 5 to 10 minutes of taking kratom, says the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Those effects can last anywhere from two to five hours. (1) Short-term kratom side effects may include: (1, 7 ) Nausea Itching Sweating Dry mouth Constipation Diarrhea Increased urination Loss of appetite Feelings of agitation, irritability, or uneasiness Drowsiness Abnormally fast heartbeat (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering) Loss of muscle coordination in the arms or legs Hallucinations Seizures Liver damage   	   
 Long-Term  	  The Facts on Kratom’s Long-Term Side Effects Studies of frequent kratom users in Thailand and Malaysia suggest there may be some long-term side effects associated with the use of high doses of kratom for a prolonged period of time. ( 8 ) Long-term side effects of kratom may include: Weight loss Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or difficulty staying asleep) Dark spots (hyperpigmentation) on the skin, especially on the cheeks Fatigue Constipation Nausea Appetite loss Frequent urination Dry mouth Tremors or shaking Seizures Psychosis (seeing or hearing things that others do not see or hear) Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any adverse side effects after using kratom or if you’re having trouble stopping kratom use.   	   
 Addiction  	  Kratom Withdrawal and Addiction: What to Know Some studies in mice and rats suggest that kratom can be habit-forming, but overall the scientific research about kratom addiction is scarce, according to a paper published in 2014 in the journal Addiction Biology . ( 9 ) What doctors know about kratom dependence comes mostly from anecdotal case reports of individual patients becoming addicted to kratom. The FDA says that some of the active compounds in kratom have similar effects to narcotics such as opioids, and may carry similar risks of drug abuse, addiction, and even death. ( 10 ) Opioids include prescription painkillers, such as morphine, dilaudid, codeine, oxycodone, and methadone, as well as illegal drugs such as heroin. Research on regular kratom users in Malaysia found that kratom users often experienced symptoms of withdrawal when they tried to stop taking the plant. (8) Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that occur when you stop using an addictive substance. Withdrawal symptoms varied in severity, with most users reporting mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms. Physical withdrawal symptoms of kratom included: (8) Muscle pain, cramps and body aches Shakiness or tremors Nausea or vomiting Abdominal pain Diarrhea Sweatiness or hot flashes Fever Difficulty sleeping Psychological withdrawal symptoms associated with kratom included: (8) Nervousness Restlessness Sadness or depressed mood Anger   	   
 Drug Interactions  	  Kratom and Potential Drug Interactions In February 2018, the FDA released the details of 44 deaths that had been associated with kratom use. In all but one case, fatality reports indicated that users had mixed kratom with other prescription or illegal drugs, including benzodiazepines and Tramadol. (10) It’s not clear yet exactly which drugs may be safe to use while taking kratom or which combinations could cause health problems. More research is needed to understand how kratom interacts with over-the-counter and prescription medication and other drugs, say federal authorities. (10)   	   
 Health Risks  	  Health Risks Related to Kratom Contamination The FDA warns that kratom-containing products may be contaminated with opioids such as hydrocodone , which can cause overdose deaths when taken at too-high doses. (10) Additionally, the FDA and the CDC began to investigate a multistate outbreak of salmonella infections linked to kratom-containing products in early 2018. As of late May 2018, the CDC reported that 199 people had been sickened in 41 states by the contaminated products. ( 11 ) At that time, the FDA advised consumers to avoid all kratom and kratom-containing products. (11)  	   
 Safety  	  Safe Use of Kratom Supplements and Products Containing Kratom Kratom is sold in the United States as a dietary supplement. Here are a few things you should know about dietary supplements before using kratom: ( 12 ) Federal laws in the United States don’t require supplement makers to prove that their products are safe before marketing them to consumers. Dietary supplements may have more or less of an ingredient than the label claims — which means you could end up taking way more of something than you had intended. Dietary supplements aren’t intended to treat or cure disease. Using a supplement together with medicines or in place of a prescribed medicine could harm your health. The term “natural” does not mean that a product has been proven safe. Before taking kratom — or any other herbal or dietary supplement — talk to your doctor to make sure the product is safe and appropriate for you to take.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[toilet paper, kratom leaves, cut-out of a liver held by a man]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/otc-insulin-what-know-before-you-buy/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/otc-insulin-what-know-before-you-buy/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Diabetes]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Over-the-Counter (OTC) Insulin: What You Need to Know]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:36:30 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Nonprescription insulin can be sold by a pharmacist in select drugstores, but it’s best to use it under a doctor&#39;s care. Learn more about the pros and cons.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you have diabetes, you may have heard about over-the-counter (OTC) insulin, which can be purchased without a prescription in person from a pharmacist at select drugstores, including Walmart and CVS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629211a6456-18b7-4728-b3bd-5eca79196813 While this option may be less expensive and seems convenient, it’s best to consult a doctor about dosage if you use it, says Joshua J. Neumiller, CDCES, PharmD , the president elect of healthcare and education for the American Diabetes Association and a professor and the vice chair of pharmacotherapy at Washington State University in Pullman. Nonprescription insulin is made from older formulations of diabetes drugs, which some clinicians consider obsolete. While some endocrinologists support the idea of using it as an affordable treatment option under a doctor’s care, others believe that the use of OTC insulin should be reserved for rare scenarios, not everyday diabetes management. “Maybe you are traveling, and you don’t have access to insulin, and you go to a pharmacy, and you get some,” says Paul Sack, MD , the chief of endocrinology and metabolism at Medstar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore.   	   
 What Is Over-the-Counter Insulin?  	  What It Is  	  Insulin, which is a medicine that helps people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes regulate their blood sugar levels, is sold in some pharmacies without a prescription. But you won't find it in pill form on the store shelves. The insulins available without a prescription come in vials and pens that may need to be kept refrigerated. They’re kept behind the pharmacy counter and you need to ask for them. OTC insulins, also known as synthetic human insulins, are older versions of the drug that may not be as effective as newer prescription insulins.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762986d27e97-6ae5-4b5f-a373-63e6e7bd3884 “These are different from ‘standard’ insulin in their duration of action and metabolism, which is why they fell out of favor,” says Ava Port, MD , an endocrinologist at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC. There are three types of OTC insulin: Regular insulin: It’s a shorter-acting formulation that works more slowly than more modern, rapid insulins. It takes about an hour to kick in, peaks around three to four hours, and wears off in about six to eight hours. Dr. Sack says you should be taking it about 15 to 30 minutes before a meal, and that can be hard to time properly. He notes that newer, shorter-acting insulin can be taken almost when the food is in front of you. NPH insulin: NPH is considered an intermediate insulin. It lasts 12 to 16 hours. That means you likely have to take two doses of NPH insulin a day. By contrast, the newer, long-acting insulins last 24 to 36 hours, according to Sack. 70-30 insulin: This is a premixed combination, which is 70 percent NPH and 30 percent regular insulin.  	   
 Who Can Use OTC Insulin?  	  Who Can Use It  	  OTC insulin may be a more affordable option for those who don’t have health insurance or have high copays. Research shows that 1 in 4 patients with type 1 diabetes in the U.S. report difficulties affording insulin.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f2ed63d2-aafb-4b2a-a643-6d89281026b7 “People should know that OTC insulin can be a useful alternative to prescribed insulin, especially if cost or accessibility prevent an individual from getting prescribed insulin,” says Alyssa Lampe Dominguez, MD , an endocrinologist at Keck Medicine of USC in Los Angeles. She adds that decisions regarding insulin dosing should be made together with your medical provider to avoid dangerous high or low blood sugars. Though it can be a cost-effective option, people with type 1 diabetes may want to be particularly careful about using OTC insulins. Generally, the older insulins are considered less predictable and more difficult to match to the body’s needs.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c81ba877-762a-42c8-b59d-f2bdb660b5c7 A study published in BMJ found that patients with type 1 diabetes who used older insulins had higher rates of low blood glucose.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629dd19b49b-97a0-4301-a050-fb753a4abded  	   
 How to Get OTC Insulin  	  How to Get It  	  You can buy it at pharmacies throughout the United States. Walmart teamed up with drugmaker Novo Nordisk to sell its own brand, called ReliOn insulin, which sells for as little as $25. The pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk has products sold under the Novolin brand name, and Eli Lilly manufactures them under the Humulin name. “It’s a good idea to call the pharmacy first to make sure they sell insulin without a prescription,” says Dr. Neumiller. “These insulin products are stored behind the pharmacy counter, so you need to speak with a pharmacy staff member and let them know you would like to purchase regular (short-acting), NPH (intermediate-acting), or premixed NPH/regular insulin without a prescription.” Because these insulin products are provided without a prescription, they won’t come with a pharmacy label with specific instructions for use. “It is important to talk with your usual diabetes care provider for specific administration instructions and to talk with the pharmacist if you have questions about how to properly administer the insulin and minimize the risk for side effects, such as hypoglycemia (low blood glucose),” says Neumiller. If cost is a factor in why you’re looking to use OTC insulin, you may also want to consider Eli Lilly’s affordable options , which include a downloadable savings card that provides a $35 maximum out-of-pocket monthly cost for people who have insurance and those without it. These drug options will be the newer medications, not the outdated formulations sold without a prescription.  	   
 How to Use OTC Insulin Safely  	  Usage  	  If your OTC insulin comes in a vial, you will need to purchase syringes to measure and administer the medicine. “These are not necessarily easy-to-use pens like we have now that you just click,” says Sack. “You have to make sure you know what you’re doing with the vial and syringe and how to measure [the dose].” It’s also important to understand how long it works in your body. If you’re switching from newer formulations to OTC insulin, you may need to adjust your dosing schedule. For example, Sack says the short-acting OTC insulins need to be taken earlier before a meal, so they have time to work. This may require you to plan specifically when you’re going to eat your meals and what you’re going to eat. You’ll also want to make sure you’re taking the correct dosage of OTC insulin. “The amount of insulin somebody needs is really hard to figure out,” says Sack. Careful monitoring of your blood glucose levels with the assistance of your healthcare provider is essential for determining your ideal dose, he adds. Too much insulin can result in extreme low blood sugar, which is dangerous and may require emergency treatment. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help or call 911. Signs of an overdose include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762989f8fa0e-ca81-4f38-911d-1895bcb865ac Sweating Rapid heartbeat Shaking Confusion Hunger Fatigue Dizziness Paleness Anxiety or irritability Vision problems Weakness Seizures Loss of consciousness Storage of OTC insulin is the same as prescribed insulin, says Dr. Dominguez. “Unopened insulin should be refrigerated, and opened insulin can be kept at room temperature,” she explains. You should avoid freezing the insulin vials or exposing them to excessive heat. Dominguez says the insulin should be discarded 28 days after the date of opening.  	   
 Benefits of OTC Insulin  	  Benefits  	  The main benefits of OTC insulin are cost and availability, according to Dominguez. “Since they are available over-the-counter, you do not need to wait for a prescription from your doctor’s office,” she says. You can purchase OTC insulin if you are uninsured or have health insurance. It can be a convenient, and sometimes lifesaving, option in case of an emergency. “OTC insulin helps improve medication accessibility and provide an option that is better than taking no insulin at all, but it’s more likely to cause severe blood sugar swings,” says Dr. Port. “While these insulins are available without a prescription, they will ideally be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional whenever possible.”   	   
 Risks and Challenges of OTC Insulin  	  Risks  	  Despite the upsides, OTC insulins may also present challenges. These older types of insulins don’t offer the same predictability and effectiveness as newer ones. It can also be difficult to figure out dosages and the timing of administration.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629cc2ad7d2-a21c-404d-967a-2316e43498e1 “I’ll be very specific. The over-the-counter ones are just not as good,” says Sack. “The way I like to describe it is with the newer insulins, you adjust your insulin to your life, and with the older insulins, you’re adjusting your life to your insulin.”  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Nonprescription insulins are older formulations of the drug that are sold in person by a pharmacist at select drugstores and pharmacies. They are less effective and not as predictable as newer prescription insulins, but they may be more affordable. OTC insulin is an option for those who are uninsured or have high copays, or who run out of their prescription insulin when they are traveling. You should always consult with your doctor before taking any type of insulin, whether you need a prescription for it or not.  	   
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                <media:title><![CDATA[Do People With Type 2 Diabetes Have to Be on Insulin?]]></media:title>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/hidradenitis-suppurativa/find-the-right-dermatologist/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/hidradenitis-suppurativa/find-the-right-dermatologist/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Skin Conditions]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[How to Find the Right Dermatologist to Help You Manage Your Hidradenitis Suppurativa]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:03:23 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[A dermatologist who can help you manage hidradenitis suppurativa is key to successful treatment. Here’s how to find the right doctor.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) — a chronic skin disease in which painful lumps or boils form, typically in areas where your skin rubs together or folds over — can be a challenging condition to diagnose and treat. Without treatment, though, the lumps can lead to complications, such as scarring and swelling. While HS often begins during adolescence, it can go undiagnosed for years due to factors ranging from embarrassment to a lack of awareness that its recurring symptoms can and should be treated. Many people don’t see a doctor for HS until it significantly interferes with their daily activities and reduces their quality of life. There’s a wide range of HS severity, but most people with it — even a fairly mild case — could benefit from seeing a dermatologist. While some primary care doctors have experience treating HS and other skin disorders, all dermatologists are trained to recognize and treat HS. Working with a dermatologist to treat your HS can help ensure you are getting maximum relief from pain and discomfort and know where to turn if your symptoms worsen . But even though all dermatologists can treat HS, that doesn’t mean each and every one will be the right fit for you. Here’s what to look for in a dermatologist, along with some other tips for navigating the process of finding a provider.   	   
 Barriers to Getting Care for HS HS isn’t a rare disease, but in the past, some primary care doctors failed to recognize its signs and symptoms, according to Anna Kirkorian, MD , chief of dermatology at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC. Fortunately, this is no longer the case in at least some areas of the United States, she says, citing the uptick in referrals she’s seen in recent years. Doctors who don’t recognize HS, though, may treat the symptoms as isolated occurrences, not realizing that the condition is chronic, explains Dr. Kirkorian. Patients also may not recognize their symptoms as being ones of a chronic disease. They may think, for example, “ This is just a strange thing that happens to me ,” says Kirkorian, or “ Oh, I just get boils ,” when, in fact, they have HS. Other times, Kirkorian says, people may be reluctant to seek care because they’re embarrassed by their symptoms or aren’t comfortable with a doctor examining certain body parts. Since areas of the body most commonly affected by HS include the armpits, groin, and buttocks, it’s essential that doctors take steps to make people with HS feel at ease, including talking about how an examination is used to guide treatment decisions. “It’s important to explain why you need to look [at a particular area of the body],” says Kirkorian. For example, if someone with HS describes symptoms in the armpits only, the doctor should tell the patient why it’s still necessary to examine the genital area and buttocks. “It’s very common that you find active disease there,” she explains, even when patients don’t notice any symptoms. “And that’s important, because it changes the staging, the severity of the diagnosis, and it may affect how we treat them.” Getting the Care You Need for HS Treating HS isn’t straightforward like following an instruction manual, says Kirkorian, which makes it different from some other skin conditions. Instead, she says, treating HS typically requires several approaches at the same time, tailored specifically to the individual. “Even in the best of hands, it can be a difficult disease to get under control,” she notes. In addition to prescription medicines, treatment for HS may involve addressing body weight, exercise habits , and sexual health, Kirkorian says. Quitting smoking can also play a big role, since research has found a strong connection between smoking and the incidence of HS — with one study reporting that smokers have twice the risk of developing HS. Because of the amount of time it takes to discuss all the facets of HS treatment, doctors may book more time for appointments in particularly severe cases, if they can. If you have severe HS, Kirkorian says, you may benefit from seeing a dermatologist at a hospital affiliated with a medical school or at an hidradenitis suppurativa specialty clinic . The good news is that most dermatologists — provided they’re a good fit for you — will be able to treat your HS effectively. “I think communication is the heart of all healthcare,” says Kirkorian. “If you don’t feel like the communication is working well in the visit, then that could be a reason to consider switching doctors.” It’s unrealistic, though, to expect that every treatment will work. The truth is, it can take some time to find the right one for you, and you may need to try something else, she says, which is yet another reason it’s essential to see a dermatologist who listens to your concerns. To improve communication with your dermatologist, try learning as much about HS as you can. Kirkorian recommends visiting the HS Foundation , which offers information about the condition as well as in-depth discussions on treatments and research. Steer clear of any information online that isn’t clearly from a trusted source, she says. If there aren’t any dermatologists in your area, Kirkorian recommends looking for a dermatology practice that offers telehealth appointments. While video visits don’t work great for all skin conditions, “The diagnosis [of HS] is not usually that challenging,” she says. That means most of a telehealth appointment for HS is typically spent discussing symptoms and treatments. When necessary, patients can take photos of affected areas and send them to the doctor through a secure platform. Whether you’re looking for a telehealth or in-person appointment with a dermatologist, asking your primary care doctor for a referral can be a good place to start, says Kirkorian. You may also be able to get recommendations from online support or discussion groups, such as those found at Hope for HS and on Facebook. Above all, “People shouldn’t delay seeking care,” says Kirkorian. “We don’t want to wait until there is scarring or disability from the disease. I’d rather see a patient early than wait until their HS is really severe.”  	   
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            <media:content medium="video" url="https://images.everydayhealth.com/images/skin-beauty/cs-finding-a-dermatologist-for-hidradenitis-suppurativa-1440x810.jpg">
                <media:title><![CDATA[How to Find the Right Dermatologist to Help You Manage HS]]></media:title>
                <media:description><![CDATA[Learn about hidradenitis suppurativa and the importance of early diagnosis and personalized dermatological care.]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-conditions/laser-hair-removal-for-hidradenitis-suppurativa/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-conditions/laser-hair-removal-for-hidradenitis-suppurativa/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Skin Conditions]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Laser Hair Removal for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 14:55:16 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Learn how laser hair removal for hidradenitis suppurativa can provide relief.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) , sometimes called acne inversa, is a chronic skin condition that causes painful lesions under the skin. The lesions can look like boils or pimples, and tend to appear in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the groin, inner thighs, and armpits.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762971af337c-1adb-4560-8a00-355086429316 Experts believe that HS starts when your hair follicles get blocked, triggering infection and inflammation.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292047b967-a6e2-4b5e-b78f-d437c82e03c5 This is where laser hair removal comes in — a procedure that can reduce or completely eliminate hair follicles, improving symptoms for people with HS.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fa59bf54-2da3-46fc-88f9-d76745ca0356 Keep reading to learn the benefits and risks of laser hair removal, how to prepare for the procedure, and what to expect during and after the procedure.  	   
 Why Is Laser Hair Removal an Option for People With Hidradenitis Suppurativa?  	  Why Laser Hair Removal  	  “Laser hair removal is often recommended for people with HS to reduce hair follicles, which worsen HS symptoms,” says Pooja Rambhia, MD , a dermatologist with specialized fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery who practices in New York City. “Specifically, lasers like the Nd:YAG, which target hair without irritating the skin, can help decrease the frequency and severity of HS flares,” Dr. Rambhia says. “By addressing one of the triggers of HS, laser hair removal can improve skin health and overall quality of life for patients,” she says.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629123813cf-5d9a-4907-9190-4527e50a908b Anna Eisenstein, MD, PhD , an assistant professor at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut, and the director of the Yale Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinic, says that because of how laser hair removal works, only people with darker hair can benefit from the therapy. “It only works for hair that has pigment, so would not work on blond, gray, or white hair,” Dr. Eisenstein says. There are some special precautions for treating people with darker skin, as we’ll see below.   	   
 How Is Laser Hair Removal Performed?  	  How It's Performed  	  Dermatologists perform the procedure in their office with a device that uses a laser to target the melanin, or skin pigment, in the hair follicle. “Pulses of the laser create heat, which destroys the hair follicle,” says Eisenstein. “This prevents hair from growing.” The pigment in the hair follicle absorbs the light, which makes the laser effective.  	   
 How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?  	  Cost  	  On average, laser hair removal costs between $2,334 and $3,890 for a total of 6 to 10 sessions, according to a recent analysis. Typically, insurance doesn’t cover the procedure. In the analysis, researchers looked at insurance coverage for laser hair removal among the largest private medical insurers and Medicaid-managed care organizations across the United States and found no coverage, with the exception of the state of Maryland.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e23b248f-415b-4047-8fc9-f88f02e6c545 In 18 other states, Medicaid programs may consider coverage of laser hair removal for any skin condition on a case-by-case basis. You can find the full list of states here .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e23b248f-415b-4047-8fc9-f88f02e6c545   	   
 How Do I Prepare for Laser Hair Removal?  	  How to Prepare  	  You should talk with your dermatologist before you begin the treatment to make sure the laser used will be appropriate for your skin and hair type. “Your dermatologist will instruct you to shave the area, usually one to two days before the treatment, and may give you a prescription numbing cream to use on the area on the day of the procedure,” says Eisenstein. “You should avoid waxing or plucking hair for several weeks before the procedure, as this temporarily eliminates the hair shafts that the laser targets,” she explains.  	   
 What Should I Expect During Laser Hair Removal?  	  What to Expect  	  You can expect your dermatologist to cleanse the treatment area and offer a topical numbing cream to ease discomfort, says Rambhia. Then, they will use a handheld device and move it over the treatment area. “The laser emits light energy that targets the follicles, which may feel like a quick snapping sensation or mild warmth,” says Rambhia. You may also feel some discomfort, “like a rubber band hitting the skin,” adds Eisenstein. A cooling mechanism on the device is used to protect the skin and make you as comfortable as possible. “Most lasers used for HS are designed to minimize skin irritation,” says Rambhia. Sessions are usually brief, depending on how large the treatment area is. Are There Any Precautions for Darker Skin? “For darker skin tones, specific wavelengths, such as the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, are preferred because they target the deeper hair follicles while sparing the surrounding skin,” says Rambhia. “This wavelength is less likely to interact with melanin in the skin’s surface, reducing the risk of burns, hyperpigmentation , or hypopigmentation,” she says. “Proper laser selection and settings, combined with an experienced provider, ensure safer and more effective treatment outcomes for patients with darker skin tones.”  	   
 What Type of Care Is Needed Following Laser Hair Removal?  	  Follow-Up Care  	  “After the procedure, the area may be red and warm for a few hours,” says Eisenstein. “Applying an ice pack can help.” You should also keep the area moisturized and clean. “Protecting the skin from sun exposure by using sunscreen is essential,” says Rambhia.  	   
 What Are the Possible Complications and Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?  	  Possible Complications  	  Laser hair removal is safe and effective when performed by a trained professional. “The best results are achieved in a series of sessions tailored to the person’s skin type, hair type, and treatment goals,” says Rambhia. Complications that may occur include temporary redness, swelling, or irritation in the treated area. Rarely, improper laser settings can cause: Burns Changes in skin color (pigmentation) Scarring “Additionally, if performed during an active HS flare, there’s a risk of worsening inflammation or secondary infection,” Rambhia says. To reduce these risks, work with a dermatologist experienced in treating HS and ensure flares are controlled before treatment, she says.  	   
 What Happens After Laser Hair Removal?  	  After Treatment  	  To get the best results, you’ll need several laser hair removal sessions a few weeks apart. On average, each session reduces hair by 10 to 30 percent, says Rambhia. “You’ll also need maintenance treatments to keep the hair from regrowing,” says Eisenstein. During this time, you should monitor your skin for any changes or side effects. This is especially important for people with HS, so that your dermatologist can take care of any flares promptly and make you feel as comfortable as possible.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Laser hair removal is recommended for people with HS because it removes the hair follicle, where HS lesions originate. The procedure is generally safe and effective when practiced by a trained professional, but some risks are associated with the treatment. Discuss your treatment options with your dermatologist, who can tailor your treatment according to your skin type, hair type, and treatment goals.  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/lung-respiratory/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/lung-respiratory/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Lung &amp; Respiratory]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[How to Protect Yourself From Wildfire Smoke]]></title>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Wildfire smoke can decrease air quality, leading to health problems from stinging eyes and headaches, to difficulty breathing and heart attacks.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Four life-threatening wildfires are currently raging across Los Angeles County, with state officials ordering tens of thousands of people to evacuate their homes.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e8d93c5f-e21e-4c12-a1d8-6d650c1f27ce Santa Ana winds are contributing to the fires’ fast-moving spread, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour expected through Thursday.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bbacce9a-95c3-4b73-a81d-5349fa1a62d7 ”Part of climate change is extreme weather patterns that include more winds that spread smoke more widely,” says Mary Margaret Johnson, MD, PhD , a research scientist with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston. This smoke poses serious health risks, especially to some vulnerable groups. People exposed to wildfire smoke may experience minor issues like stinging eyes, scratchy throats, and headaches, as well as more severe reactions such as difficulty breathing and heart attacks . ”Wildfires cause particulate matter pollution, which is one of the largest environmental health risk factors contributing to premature deaths worldwide,” says Rebecca Saari, PhD , an associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Waterloo in Ontario. In a recent study, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge estimated that smoke from human-ignited fires was responsible for the premature deaths of 20,000 Americans in 2018 alone.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762944a8334d-92a7-4026-9450-80009c299cd0 With these factors in mind, here’s what you need to know about how wildfire smoke can harm your health — even if you’re living thousands of miles from the flames — and how to protect yourself.   	   
 Ways Wildfire Smoke Can Make You Sick  	  Ways Smoke Makes You Sick  	  The U.S. National Weather Service notes that anyone can feel sick from exposure to air pollutants caused by wildfires. Bad air quality can lead to:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629cb214930-8424-4924-b5a9-fe243a290c71 Headaches Irritated eyes and sinuses Runny nose Increased coughing and scratchy throat Fatigue Chest tightness ”If you feel extreme shortness of breath or chest pain that’s concerning, you will want to get to an emergency room or call 911,” says Timothy Daum, MD , a pulmonologist with University of Michigan Health–West in the city of Wyoming.   	   
 Who Is at Highest Risk From Wildfire Smoke?  	  Who Is at Highest Risk  	  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that adults over 65, children (with developing lungs), and pregnant individuals are most susceptible to wildfire smoke.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762993f33087-c170-4a41-be3d-2087253118cb Those who already have underlying lung issues — such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , asthma, and bronchitis — face a higher risk of breathing difficulties. ”Smoke adds insult to already-injured lungs,” says Purvi Parikh, MD , an allergist and immunologist with NYU Langone Health in New York City and a medical adviser for the Allergy and Asthma Network. As Dr. Daum stresses, pollutants caused by wildfire smoke can also aggravate chronic cardiovascular issues. People with heart disease should be on the alert for signs of heart attack , stroke, and arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). ”When this small particulate matter gets into a person, it sets up inflammation and adverse consequences throughout the body,” says Daum. Air pollution can also throw off your immune system, making you more susceptible to any type of respiratory virus, including the flu , RSV , and COVID-19 . Research from Harvard University found that even a slight rise in particulate matter in the air was linked with a 15 percent increase in the COVID-19 death rate.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290b0eef6b-f736-4e8a-99d1-a52619e58ae7 While the long-term effects of wildfire smoke are not certain, Cancer Research UK considers exposure to air pollution to be a risk factor for lung cancer.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d2681f4a-064e-48b8-aa99-0335ff4ba2e1 ”Damage to heart, vasculature, and lungs can be permanent, and it can be fatal,” says Otis Brawley, MD , a professor of oncology and epidemiology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.   	   
 Why Wildfire Smoke Is So Dangerous  	  Why Wildfire Smoke Is So Dangerous  	   While all the pollutants that wildfire smoke releases can harm your health, the EPA says that fine particles from wildfire smoke pose the biggest threat.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629808e1080-0abb-495e-bd7b-3c6bbe55cb67 These particles are measured as PM2.5, atmospheric particulate matter that has a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fa89974a-10a0-4cd2-8394-bf2cda3780d7 These minute pollutants, which are just 3 percent of the diameter of a human hair, are particularly hazardous. The body can filter out many coarser particles, but PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs and impair their function. The EPA considers it safe to breathe PM2.5 levels that don’t go over a concentration of 35 micrograms per cubic meter of air (mcg/m 3 ) within a day, as long as the yearly daily average comes out to 12 mcg/m 3 or less.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299c064025-235f-473a-8f5f-4639579a322f Dr. Johnson cautions that it doesn’t take much of a rise in PM2.5 to ignite health problems. ”With just a 10-unit increase in PM2.5, you’ll see an uptick in emergency room visits and hospital admissions for heart attacks, strokes, arrhythmias, and severe breathing problems related to asthma, COPD, or bronchitis,” she says. ”When the level reaches 200 it’s like smoking almost 9 or 10 cigarettes a day, and that’s for everyone — babies and older people included.”  	   
 How to Protect Yourself From Wildfire Smoke  	  How to Protect Yourself  	  When air quality veers into the danger zone, take these steps to protect yourself: Avoid going outside. One of the easiest actions to minimize smoky air intake is to stay indoors. The CDC instructs people to keep windows and doors shut, and run an air-conditioner, but keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside. Those without air-conditioning may want to seek out an air-conditioned community center. If you do want to go outside during a period when wildfire smoke is high, Johnson suggests that conditions may be somewhat better at night or early in the morning or later in the day when there is less sunlight. ”When you don’t have sunlight, you’re going to have less conversion of pollutants to ozone [which is highly dangerous to a person’s health],” she says.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295f51d91f-1ece-4b46-8425-2f1a02c558af Daum adds, however, that there is no reliable time of day that is better than any other when it comes to air quality. Check the air quality index (AQI). ”Fortunately, most smartphones provide a measure of air quality under their weather apps,” he says. ”This can be a reliable guide as to when it is safe to exercise or work outdoors.” You can also check at the EPA’s AirNow website.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291a64bfd1-eb5c-407f-a89d-a8264463b370 These resources measure the air quality by taking into account current levels of major pollutants, including ground level particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, and sulfur dioxide. Those calculations are translated into an air quality index (AQI), a number ranging between 0 and 500. A level between 0 and 50 poses no health dangers. Members of vulnerable groups may start to have air pollution–related symptoms starting at 51, and at 100 the air outside is considered unsafe for them. Most people will start to have noticeable symptoms at a level above 150, and anything above 300 is considered hazardous. Keep exercise indoors and to a minimum. Physical activity increases breathing and heart rates, so when air quality levels go into the red, exercise inside and at a moderate (rather than high-intensity) pace. ”Overexertion should be avoided,” says Dr. Brawley. Wear an N95 mask. Daum advises wearing an N95 mask that fits snugly to the face if you’re outdoors for a long time. ”A regular cloth mask or regular surgical mask probably won’t do much. An N95 probably won’t filter out everything, but it will help.” Consider using an air purifier. Tests by Consumer Reports of air purifiers with HEPA filters show that they can help get rid of harmful particulates. The best air purifiers can reduce particle concentrations by as much as 85 percent. They range in price from $50 to more than $1,000.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295c52ba58-c97a-48e2-8767-331faf95695b   	   
 The Takeaway  	  Wildfires can worsen air quality and increase the risk of both minor ailments and serious events like heart attacks. This is due to microscopic particulate matter in the smoke, which can get into the lungs and lead to damaging inflammation. Checking the Air Quality Index (AQI) on weather apps or from the EPA can give you an idea of whether it's safe to go outside during wildfire season.   	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/first-us-bird-flu-death-reported-in-louisiana/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/first-us-bird-flu-death-reported-in-louisiana/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Infectious Diseases]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[First U.S. Bird Flu Death Reported in Louisiana]]></title>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 22:49:16 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[The risk of catching H5N1 bird flu remains low, and there have been no reported cases of person-to-person spread.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[The first U.S. patient hospitalized with severe bird flu — a case of H5N1 avian influenza — has died in Louisiana, according to state health officials. “While the current public health risk for the general public remains low, people who work with birds, poultry, or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk,” the Louisiana Department of Health said in a statement.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629882193d7-89ed-47c5-ad3a-979e179cad96 The Louisiana patient was over 65 years old and had preexisting health problems, the health department said. The patient had been in contact with a flock of backyard birds as well as wild birds, health officials said. After an extensive investigation, the health department said it had no evidence of additional cases or person-to-person transmission in Louisiana. “The bird flu virus has not acquired the genetic capacity to readily infect humans or to spread easily in the human population,” says William Schaffner, MD , a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. “If the virus continues as is, without the capacity to spread easily among people, deaths from bird flu will continue to be unusual,” Dr. Schaffner adds. “Of course, should the virus develop the genetic capacity to spread readily among humans, then it is likely the world would experience a pandemic that would result in much serious illness and many deaths.” Almost All U.S. Cases of Bird Flu Have Been Mild Nearly all of the 46 human cases of bird flu identified in the United States from March to October 2024 were mild, and most occurred after exposure to infected birds or animals on farms, according to an analysis published in The New England Journal of Medicine .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f05b14b0-4a79-4340-b8cf-0a3dddf9c042 Bird flu has infected tens of millions of chickens in the Unites States, as well as dairy cows, cattle raised for beef, and a variety of other mammals, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629452247cb-2762-436b-ba14-344a0a54dfa3 Who Is at Risk of Severe Illness From Bird Flu? As with seasonal flu, elderly individuals and people with chronic medical conditions are more likely to develop severe bird flu infections, Schaffner says. Right now, people should be much more worried about seasonal flu — which is highly contagious and easily spreads from person to person — than about bird flu, Schaffner adds. Seasonal influenza is among the leading causes of death in the United States, killing an estimated 47,000 people a year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f9c408a1-c3a7-40f4-999c-29981cdbf002 How Does Bird Flu Make Humans Sick? People who get sick with bird flu are mostly likely in close contact with the virus through exposure to commercial or personal flocks or livestock, says Stephen Morse, PhD , an epidemiology professor at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health in New York City. “The virus is probably inhaled in most of the serious cases,” Dr. Morse says. People would likely have to be in very close contact with infected birds and breathe in high concentrations of the virus to get a severe infection, because this type of influenza attacks deep inside the respiratory tract, Morse notes. “This is probably why serious human cases are relatively rare.” People would be most at risk if they work in close contact with birds on commercial farms doing tasks like defeathering, or if they hunt and clean the birds they kill, says Richard Webby, PhD , an infectious disease researcher at St. Jude Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences in Memphis, Tennessee, and the director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals and Birds. “In instances where these activities are conducted, doing them in well-ventilated areas with hygiene precautions such as hand washing and maybe even masking make good sense,” Dr. Webby says. How to Protect Yourself Against Bird Flu The Louisiana Department of Health recommends the following precautions for people who may handle birds and for the general public: Do not touch sick or dead animals or their bodily fluids, and do not bring sick wild animals into your home. Keep your pets away from sick or dead animals and their waste. Do not eat uncooked or undercooked animal products. Cook poultry, eggs , and other animal products to the proper temperature and prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked food. Avoid raw food products such as unpasteurized raw milk or cheeses from animals that have a suspected or confirmed infection. If you work on poultry or dairy farms, talk to your healthcare provider about getting your seasonal flu vaccination. It will not prevent infection with avian influenza viruses, but it can reduce the risk of coinfection with avian and seasonal flu viruses.  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[Colorized transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza H5N1 virus]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/respiratory-viruses-are-surging-across-the-us/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/infectious-diseases/respiratory-viruses-are-surging-across-the-us/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Infectious Diseases]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Respiratory Viruses Are Surging Across the U.S.]]></title>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 21:13:21 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Emergency room visits for flu and RSV are very high, according to the latest data, with numbers for COVID-19 low for now but expected to rise.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[With the new year just beginning, the respiratory virus season is kicking in strong. The latest surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that the level of acute respiratory illness causing people to seek healthcare is “high” and continuing to increase nationally.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629aa9fa36d-ed2e-45f1-a635-2285f83c4d99 Emergency room visits for flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are considered “very high” and climbing, while COVID-19 emergency department admissions are low but also on the rise. For the week ending December 28, more than 26,000 people were admitted to hospitals with influenza. That number represents about 7.8 per 100,000 hospitalized people compared with 2.4 per 100,000 for RSV.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290d1b5196-2997-4467-92af-2b01c4b4bc77e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293ba6c4d7-eb3b-42e7-8f8a-0bf6665a281a “Most of the current surge is being driven by high influenza activity as well as RSV,” says Peter Chin-Hong, MD , an infectious disease specialist and a professor of medicine at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine. “RSV came first in November, followed by influenza in December. RSV is possibly at its peak now and being overtaken by influenza as the respiratory virus driving emergency department visits and hospitalizations nationally.” Test Positivity and Wastewater Indicators Are Climbing Another sign of viral activity is test positivity (the percentage of tests that come back positive for a disease), and flu is now the leader, with the positivity rate at the end of December jumping to nearly 19 percent from 13 percent the previous week.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629074f6e0d-6286-4392-8331-78e3f8c86203 Compared with the week prior, RSV rose to 12.8 percent from 10.7 percent, and weekly COVID test positivity inched up just 0.1 percent to 7.1 percent.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629074f6e0d-6286-4392-8331-78e3f8c86203 Wastewater (sewage) testing, however, suggests that COVID cases may soon shoot up. Because traces of infectious disease circulating in a community can be detected in wastewater, testing can provide an early warning if infections are on the upswing. Currently, the level of COVID activity in wastewater is at “high,” while measures for flu and RSV are both “moderate.” “You're likely to see upticks [of viral activity] in wastewater measurements sometimes several weeks before you actually observe an increase in clinical cases,” says Dean Winslow, MD , an infectious-disease specialist and a professor of medicine at Stanford University in California. “COVID-19 hit a low point in November, but as wastewater shows it may pick up again.” It’s the Most Virus-Filled Time of the Year While respiratory illnesses are expected to keep growing throughout the country, 10 states in particular are currently experiencing “very high” levels of infections: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629074f6e0d-6286-4392-8331-78e3f8c86203 “I don’t see a common thread as to why these states in particular are seeing the highest levels of activity,” says Erica Prochaska, MD, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist with Johns Hopkins Children’s Center in Baltimore. “Unfortunately, I suspect that the states that have lower numbers now are probably going to have higher numbers over the next few weeks because that’s typically what happens.” Public health authorities note that widespread sickness this time of year is not unusual, as many people have been traveling and gathering inside for the holidays. Spending more time indoors during the colder weather tends to fuel viral activity.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762951104009-88ec-4ac6-9019-5f380d4011ea “In addition, low humidity this time of year may make viral particles lighter and more easily spread,” says Dr. Chin-Hong. It Can Be Challenging to Know if You Have Flu, RSV, or COVID-19 Because symptoms of flu , RSV, and COVID-19 are similar, it can be difficult to distinguish between illnesses caused by these respiratory viruses, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299a7bab3c-fd97-4c85-9ef9-c5cdca4c3f73 Common symptoms include cough, headaches, sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. NFID says that aches, fatigue, and fever occur often with flu; difficult breathing, fatigue , and sore throat occur often with COVID-19; and wheezing is a frequent and distinguishing symptom with RSV. To definitely diagnose a case, a healthcare professional may use a test, and that may help determine treatment, such as with antiviral drugs specifically for flu or COVID-19 — although with basic care such as rest and hydration, most of these illnesses get better on their own.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762967de3bc6-aeb7-4861-956c-b68dbaca503be60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762911908f6c-c828-4c27-9b0a-4ae795ab4579 Preventing Spread Can Protect the Most Vulnerable Generally, people at higher risk of getting severely ill from respiratory viruses are older adults, young children, people with compromised immune systems, people with disabilities, and pregnant people.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d35fca15-08dc-4bf5-bb74-91e1c0cbfd4b In looking at flu-related hospitalizations in the last three months of 2024, for example, the highest cumulative hospitalization rate per 100,000 population was among adults ages 65 years and older (38.6), followed by adults ages 50 to 64 years (15.1), and children ages 0 to 4 years (12.2).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291b83bd3c-40ec-4c43-ab66-9bd480cf372d When it comes to RSV, the CDC says emergency department visits and hospitalizations have been highest in children and hospitalizations are elevated among older adults in some areas.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d301d817-21cd-44e8-b321-179993f15e17 To help reduce severe illnesses, the American Lung Association recommends adopting these habits to prevent transmission:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293e0ad15c-7c4f-4eb7-a97e-6882c25a8465 Cover your cough or sneeze, preferably with a tissue. Keep your distance from people who are sick. Stay home when sick. Clean and disinfect surfaces when someone is sick at home. Consider wearing a mask to protect against circulating viruses. Wash hands regularly. “Frequent hand-washing is probably one of the best protections,” says Dr. Winslow, who warns that we all have to touch doorknobs, railings, and the like, which can be contaminated with viruses. It’s Not Too Late to Get Vaccinated Chin-Hong adds that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe illness from respiratory viruses, and the public should make sure they are up to date with recommended vaccines for flu , COVID-19 , and RSV .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bea2bd09-6fcb-4d84-9af2-068e3514c092 “There is still time to get vaccinated,” he says. “Influenza in particular has a long tail of infection that can extend into April. COVID is famously unpredictable so it may still emerge later in the season — I would vaccinate now if unvaccinated this year, especially for those who are older than 65 and/or immunocompromised.”  	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[Black mature woman sitting on her couch at home blowing her nose because she is sick]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/blood-disorders/what-kind-of-cancer-causes-low-hemoglobin/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/blood-disorders/what-kind-of-cancer-causes-low-hemoglobin/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Blood Disorders]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[What Kind of Cancer Causes Low Hemoglobin?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 20:44:27 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Explore how certain cancers, such as leukemia and colorectal cancer, can lead to low hemoglobin levels and anemia. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Anemia is a common blood disorder in which you do not have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that enables red blood cells to carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Symptoms related to anemia stem from this lack of oxygen-carrying capacity and can include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, palpitations, lightheadedness, headache, and pallor of the skin. If anemia lasts long enough and isn’t treated, it can cause serious complications, including organ damage.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762952db8102-72a0-42e2-9b63-1544b8a7a99a “Depending on how bad your anemia is, you may be asymptomatic to severe enough to require transfusions,” says Robert Diep, MD , a clinical assistant professor and medical oncologist at Stanford Medicine in California. In some cases, anemia can be an indication of certain types of cancer. Here’s what you need to know about the connection between anemia and cancer, and what kinds of cancer can cause low hemoglobin.  	   
 Why Is Anemia Linked to Cancer?  	  Why Is Anemia Linked to Cancer?  	  Anemia is a common symptom for many people with cancer, and it’s sometimes the first sign of cancer or progressive disease in a patient’s cancer journey, says Dr. Diep. Low red blood cell counts can also be caused by cancer treatments or something other than cancer.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762915663319-f9fe-43bd-aa4b-369fc7da0305 In people with cancer, anemia is linked with a higher likelihood of poor outcomes, including death, and reduced quality of life.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bb996b08-ab86-4b3c-9356-affb148be8d8 There are several reasons why cancer and anemia are linked. Cancer Cells Crowd Out Healthy Blood Cells Some cancers that affect the bone marrow, such as leukemia or lymphoma, can invade and disrupt the production of red blood cells. The bone marrow is responsible for making blood cells, including red blood cells. When cancer cells take over this space, it leads to reduced production of healthy red blood cells, which lowers hemoglobin levels. Chronic Bleeding Certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer or stomach cancer, may cause internal bleeding, which can result in a gradual loss of red blood cells. Over time, this leads to a condition called iron-deficiency anemia, as the body runs low on the iron needed to produce new red blood cells.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295f2167b3-c71a-484a-a4e2-0ba713793895 Chemotherapy and Radiation Anemia can be related to the treatments a patient might receive to treat their cancer, says Diep. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can suppress bone marrow activity, making it harder for the body to produce red blood cells.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762974deec68-1626-470b-9d50-9ab79996c30b Chronic Inflammation Some cancers produce systemic inflammation, which can interfere with the body’s ability to produce red blood cells. This is particularly true for cancers that have spread (metastasized), as they produce signals that disrupt normal blood cell production.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296b801c7d-2a7f-4eaa-9c59-9f9d5eb592b0 It is not unusual to see multiple factors contributing to a patient’s anemia in the context of cancer, says Diep. Anemia in cancer patients is typically classified as iron-deficiency anemia or anemia of chronic disease. Iron-deficiency anemia occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to make red blood cells, while anemia of chronic disease is a type of anemia caused by underlying conditions like cancer, where inflammation or bone marrow disruption prevents red blood cell production.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762915663319-f9fe-43bd-aa4b-369fc7da0305  	   
 Types of Cancer Linked to Anemia  	  Types of Cancer Linked to Anemia  	  While any type of cancer can potentially lead to anemia, certain cancers are more likely to affect red blood cell production or cause bleeding, thereby leading to low hemoglobin levels. Your bone marrow is the factory that makes all your blood cells. It is therefore no surprise that anemia is common in many types of hematologic cancers that can involve the bone marrow, such as myelodysplastic syndrome, multiple myeloma, leukemia and lymphoma. Other cancer types have high rates of anemia too, especially ones that have the potential of bleeding, which includes some genitourinary, gynecologic, or gastrointestinal malignancies. Blood Cancers: Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Myeloma Your bone marrow is the factory that makes all your blood cells, Diep explains. That’s why blood cancers that directly impact blood cell production in the bone marrow are likely to cause anemia. Leukemia Leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood that causes abnormal white blood cells to multiply uncontrollably. These abnormal cells take up space in the bone marrow, crowding out healthy red blood cells. As a result, patients with leukemia often experience low hemoglobin levels. Additionally, leukemia cells use a lot of iron to support their rapid growth, which can lead to iron deficiency.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296238bed8-ab0d-4205-97a4-9042bf05e8ac Lymphoma Lymphoma, which includes both Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, is a cancer that starts in the lymphatic system. Anemia is common in this type of cancer because lymphoma cells can infiltrate the bone marrow and interfere with red blood cell production.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629548e7e8e-0f2c-4d2a-90fe-fb3cfce8275e Multiple Myeloma Multiple myeloma is a cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. These cancerous cells can crowd out healthy blood cells and cause a reduction in red blood cell production, leading to anemia. At least 60 to 70 percent of people with multiple myeloma have anemia when they are diagnosed.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295701cd5c-dbcf-463f-9c78-77e24dbc3401 Solid Tumor Cancers While blood cancers have a more direct impact on blood cell production, solid tumor cancers can also lead to anemia, often through mechanisms like bleeding, bone marrow infiltration, or chronic inflammation. Bone Cancer Bone cancer, such as osteosarcoma, can infiltrate the bone marrow, where red blood cells are produced, leading to anemia. Additionally, treatments for bone cancer, such as surgery or chemotherapy, can also suppress red blood cell production. Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer can lead to anemia due to chronic blood loss. As the tumor grows, it may cause irregular bleeding, which depletes the body’s iron stores and reduces red blood cell levels. Colon Cancer Colon cancer often causes anemia because it can lead to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Even small amounts of blood loss over time can result in iron-deficiency anemia. The cancer may also disrupt the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells. Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer may cause anemia in two main ways: through bone marrow infiltration and the use of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Androgens are hormones that support red blood cell production, and ADT treatments suppress these hormones, leading to lower red blood cell counts.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762919cf1333-3c72-4b7e-902f-6e0c6e2c74fc Other Cancers Linked to Anemia Other cancers, such as lung cancer and breast cancer, are also associated with anemia. Lung Cancer Lung cancer is linked to iron deficiency due to a combination of factors such as chronic inflammation, poor appetite, and bone marrow infiltration.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290f671e0e-510a-4574-bd88-2c02113287cb Breast Cancer In breast cancer, low hemoglobin levels can occur before chemotherapy begins, but they tend to get worse after treatment as chemotherapy suppresses red blood cell production.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d72f24af-3f48-4763-8483-a19605e72506  	   
 Symptoms of Anemia  	  Symptoms  	  Anemia can cause a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity depending on how low your hemoglobin levels are. Common symptoms of anemia include: Fatigue and weakness Pale skin or an ashen complexion Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity Dizziness or lightheadedness Rapid or irregular heartbeat Cold hands and feet Chest pain (in severe cases) People experiencing any of these symptoms should discuss them with their healthcare provider. They may be caused by low hemoglobin or anemia caused by a number of different factors, including cancer.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fc1493cc-a789-4eee-8989-44a3c45b5907  	   
 Diagnosing Anemia  	  Diagnosis  	  It’s important to recognize that there are many different types of cancer, and there are many different causes of anemia, says Diep. “Anemia may be unrelated to cancer but can sometimes be related directly or indirectly to cancer and subsequent treatments. People should ask their doctor for a full workup to address all treatable causes of anemia,” he says. A systematic approach is used in diagnosing anemia, which involves various lab tests to find the likely cause, says Diep. Lab tests can show hemoglobin level, serum iron level, reticulocyte (immature red blood cells) count, serum ferritin level (which shows how much iron your body stores), and your iron-binding capacity, which shows if you have too little or too much iron in your blood. Anemia is diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures various components of your blood, including red blood cells and hemoglobin levels. Anything lower than these values may indicate anemia.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292e1f9bd1-a6dd-4a76-bac3-7603845f0c91 Other tests may include: Tests on body fluids such as stool, urine, sputum, or vomit to check for blood A bone marrow biopsy to make sure the bone marrow is making healthy red blood cells An MRI or a CAT scan to look for bleeding in the bodye60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293a884f54-428f-4eb0-99a0-6ea24baf2b5b “In a patient with a preexisting cancer diagnosis, the workup for anemia is generally the same, although we often see anemia related to inflammation and treatment-related anemia more often,” he says. Providers will also review historical lab trends in case the anemia may have been present long before, and is therefore possibly unrelated to, the cancer diagnosis, says Diep.  	   
 Treatment for Anemia in Cancer  	  Treatment  	  Treating anemia is an essential part of managing cancer, as low hemoglobin levels can impact a person’s ability to tolerate cancer treatments. The goal of treatment is to restore normal red blood cell counts and ensure the body can get the oxygen it needs. The treatment of anemia follows what the likely cause is, says Diep. “For example, in iron deficiency anemia, you would focus on replenishing the patient’s iron stores, which is important for hemoglobin synthesis,” he says. Iron supplements: The first line of treatment for iron-deficiency anemia is usually iron supplements. These can come in the form of oral pills or intravenous (IV) iron, depending on the severity of the deficiency. Foods rich in iron, such as red meat, beans, and leafy greens, can also support your body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292f0fc942-6026-4d87-ab77-b60e7bee7668 Blood transfusion: If the anemia is especially severe, patients may undergo transfusion, says Diep. Medications: In some cases, medications like erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) may be used to encourage the production of red blood cells. ESAs have been linked to certain adverse events, and so the risk-benefit ratio needs to be assessed by your provider.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ddc9dc06-1c72-4399-823e-48afc42cedb6 Cancer treatments may also need to be adjusted if a person has anemia. If chemotherapy is causing the anemia, doctors may recommend lowering the dose or switching to a different treatment regimen.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Anemia is common in cancer patients and can be caused by cancer itself, treatments, chronic bleeding, or inflammation, leading to low hemoglobin and reduced oxygen supply. Blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma are more likely to cause anemia by disrupting bone marrow and interfering with red blood cell production. Solid tumor cancers, including colon, prostate, and cervical cancers, can cause anemia through bleeding, bone marrow infiltration, or treatment side effects like chemotherapy. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin; early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and allow for the best possible outcomes.  	   
 Resources We Trust  	   Cleveland Clinic: Low Hemoglobin Mayo Clinic: Low Blood Cell Counts: Side Effects of Cancer Treatment American Cancer Society: Anemia (Low Red Blood Cell Counts) MD Medicine Cancer Center: Anemia and Cancer Yale Medicine: Blood Cancers   	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/lung-respiratory/eosinophilic-asthma/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/lung-respiratory/eosinophilic-asthma/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Lung &amp; Respiratory]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[What Is Eosinophilic Asthma? Diagnosis, Causes, Complications, and Treatment]]></title>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 20:41:25 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Explore eosinophilic asthma, a severe form of asthma with high eosinophil levels. Learn about its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for better management.]]></description>
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            <content:encoded><![CDATA[There are different types of asthma, including allergic, nonallergic, and exercise-induced. Eosinophilic asthma (also called eos asthma) can happen if you have high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your airways.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762917e11b88-7fe8-4364-bb65-d8161d1a1f0ae60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762972849b97-6b2c-440a-aced-db2dca617295 Eos asthma is classed as a severe asthma and can result in long-term airway damage.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294a0b5ba5-077b-49b2-a327-a7cd4a523589 Eosinophils help your body fight infection. But if too many are present in your airways they can overreact, leading to swelling and other asthma symptoms. The symptoms may be more severe than with other types.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762917e11b88-7fe8-4364-bb65-d8161d1a1f0a According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) 10 percent of people with asthma in the United States have severe symptoms that are hard to manage. Many of these people, they say, may have eosinophilic asthma.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762917e11b88-7fe8-4364-bb65-d8161d1a1f0a People with asthma don’t always know if it’s eos asthma or not, as an episode can have the same triggers as other types of asthma, and symptoms can be similar. Your doctor can find out by doing tests.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762917e11b88-7fe8-4364-bb65-d8161d1a1f0a  	   
 What Is Eosinophilic Asthma?  	  Overview  	  Asthma is a condition in which airway inflammation makes it hard to breathe. This can result from allergic and nonallergic causes. “Asthma is characterized by airflow obstruction and limitation of airflow that’s associated with inflammation,” says Michael Wechsler, MD , a codirector of the Cohen Family Asthma Institute at National Jewish Health in Denver. “There’s a subset of asthma patients in whom that inflammation is caused by eosinophils.” Eosinophils are white blood cells that play an important role in the immune system. They are bigger than most cells and account for less than 5 percent of all your white blood cells.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629300eb8d6-7fb6-4efa-b534-cd34580500d3 These cells help your body fight infections, such as bacteria, parasites, and viruses. But, they can also contribute to other diseases, including asthma.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f7f360dc-afe8-4cdf-b2a4-0b93363d945d When your immune system fights a pathogen, such as an infection, you’ll notice certain reactions, such as inflammation and swelling. These reactions are a healthy and necessary part of the immune response.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295f3afb68-a167-4ef7-b5e9-02b7c12837ed But if your immune system overreacts, symptoms can occur more often and be more severe.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298724f26f-d527-402b-ac94-389a398bbd14 Present throughout the body, normally eosinophils tend to occur in high levels in certain organs, such as the gastrointestinal tract, with lower concentrations in the airways.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bdc7d654-19c3-4b4d-bd41-c615ade629c2 High levels of eosinophils in your airways can cause your immune response to be too strong, leading to severe inflammation.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298724f26f-d527-402b-ac94-389a398bbd14 As the Cleveland Clinic website explains, your airways become “clogged” with inflamed eosinophils.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629300eb8d6-7fb6-4efa-b534-cd34580500d3   	   
 Causes and Risk Factors  	  Causes  	  It’s not clear why some people have higher eosinophil levels in their airways, but they may have one or more of the following risk factors.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294d77c4fa-cc9c-4149-9e5e-de56d91bdc33e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629459ede34-337d-4029-ae43-72be6a83d605 An allergic reaction A parasitic disease A drug reaction Genetic factors Stress Exposure to pollutants A respiratory infection Experts believe these factors may trigger an immune response that leads to persistently high levels of eosinophils and chronic inflammation.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629459ede34-337d-4029-ae43-72be6a83d605 Usually, high numbers of eosinophils that occur during an immune response die off and leave the body when they’re no longer needed. For some reason, however, this doesn’t always happen, and levels remain high.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629459ede34-337d-4029-ae43-72be6a83d605  	   
 Eos Asthma and Other Asthma Types  	  Eos Asthma Differences  	  Eos asthma can resemble other types of asthma, but there are also differences. Age Eos asthma usually appears in adults rather than children. It commonly starts at 35 to 50 years of age, but it can also affect older people and children.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bd9bd291-6f14-4a9a-900a-ac3bb708b8f1e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297f372906-5e9e-41ce-b1c2-2d45acfb204e Allergies People with eos asthma may not have a history of other allergies, but exposure to environmental substances, such as dust mites, can sometimes trigger it.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e125c0d4-c99e-46de-a430-2ac484b90bfc Symptoms In addition to other asthma symptoms, people with eos asthma may also have persistent inflammation in the nose and sinuses and nasal polyps.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295374c723-3130-4a3d-ae6c-a2f7e53995b9 Response to Treatment Doctors categorize severe asthma as either type 2 or non–type 2, depending on how symptoms respond to specific treatments. Eos asthma is a type 2 inflammatory asthma, along with allergic asthma.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629df17b887-1588-4777-bafe-b8a07a0a3e3f Type 2 asthma, such as eos asthma, responds to inhaled corticosteroids and biologic drugs. Non–type 2 asthma may not respond to these drugs.  	   
 Symptoms of Eosinophilic Asthma  	  Symptoms  	  The symptoms of eosinophilic asthma can resemble those of other asthma types, but there may be additional symptoms. They include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762949028027-289e-4cfc-8806-4181e3884d56 Wheezing Coughing Shortness of breath or breathing difficulty Chest tightness Airflow obstruction, affecting how well the lungs work Persistent rhinosinusitis Nasal polyps Inflamed mucous membrane in the nose People with high eosinophil levels in their airways may also have a risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299fad8b48-57ad-42e8-98bb-48f3d52b47d2  	   
 Diagnosis of Eosinophilic Asthma  	  Diagnosis  	  To diagnose eos asthma, a doctor will likely ask about:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fa0c54d7-0a80-4f00-8b5f-b535a7de6520 Your symptoms Any history of asthma Any allergies Other medical history They will also carry out a physical examination. If the doctor suspects eos asthma, they may also do tests to see if you have high levels of eosinophils. Tests for Eos Asthma Three tests are used to diagnose eos asthma:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a374d29c-ab30-4780-910d-bb27179be819 A blood test: A health professional will use a needle to take a small blood sample, usually in a doctor’s office. They’ll then send it to a laboratory for testing. Eosinophil levels of 150 cells per microgram (mcg) or over may be a sign of eos asthma.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a374d29c-ab30-4780-910d-bb27179be819e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762924c69e2e-7ae6-479f-9724-b1274dc9556a A sputum test: You’ll need to cough up a mucus sample, usually in a doctor’s office. Your doctor will send it to a pathologist to examine under a microscope. An eosinophil count of 2 percent or higher in sputum may indicate eos asthma.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b1df1ec8-baaf-4d6e-b0fa-c2520fc00b13e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762924c69e2e-7ae6-479f-9724-b1274dc9556a A bronchial biopsy: A specialist lung doctor (pulmonologist) will apply local anesthesia and put a narrow tube (bronchoscope) down your throat and into your lungs. The device will collect small samples of tissue and fluid. The doctor will examine this to see if the samples contain eosinophils. You may need to do this in a hospital.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629b1df1ec8-baaf-4d6e-b0fa-c2520fc00b13 Dr. Wechsler notes: “It’s really important for people with severe asthma to ask, 'What kind of asthma do I have? Do I have eosinophils? What is the subtype of asthma?'” He adds, “New treatments released over the past three years can help with the eosinophilic subtype.” The right diagnosis will help you get the right treatment.  	   
 Treatment and Management of Eosinophilic Asthma  	  Treatment  	  You can often manage eos asthma with a combination of the usual asthma medications and some special drugs to reduce eosinophil levels in the airways.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297261b776-127d-41e2-8acc-c5e01d897c23 Common Asthma Drugs That May Help Common asthma medications include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297261b776-127d-41e2-8acc-c5e01d897c23 Bronchodilators, which relax and open the airways Corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory medications Options combining both bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs Some treatments are for long-term use, to prevent attacks. They include inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629902dd5bd-4112-43b5-8eb2-d2c678bf24a7 Others, known as rescue medications, help manage symptoms when they arise. Rescue drugs include short-acting albuterol inhalers and oral corticosteroids.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629902dd5bd-4112-43b5-8eb2-d2c678bf24a7 These drugs help many people with eos asthma but not everyone.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297261b776-127d-41e2-8acc-c5e01d897c23 Long-Term Drugs and Biologics for Eos Asthma If the usual asthma drugs don’t help, your doctor may suggest other long-acting options such as leukotriene modifiers or a biologic drug. Leukotriene Modifiers Your body releases leukotrienes as part of the immune response. They can lead to coughing, airway inflammation, and other asthma-like symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f075f37e-918c-4d1c-91c3-3c1e112eff68 Leukotriene modifiers block the action of leukotrienes and stop these symptoms from happening. They can help with various types of asthma. Here are some examples:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629902dd5bd-4112-43b5-8eb2-d2c678bf24a7 montelukast (Singulair) zafirlukast (Accolate) zileuton (Zyflo) Biologics Also known as targeted therapies, biologic drugs reduce inflammation by targeting specific cells and pathways in your body. Doctors will prescribe them alongside other treatments.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297261b776-127d-41e2-8acc-c5e01d897c23 Research suggests various biologics can help reduce episodes and improve lung function in people with EOS asthma.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a280094c-9450-41fe-9690-4a41da24a4f9 Examples of biologics for eos asthma include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297261b776-127d-41e2-8acc-c5e01d897c23 benralizumab (Fasenra): Delivered as an injection, you can use this drug from the age of 12 years. It reduces inflammation by lowering eosinophil levels. mepolizumab (Nucala): Also delivered as a shot, this is suitable for those 6 years and older. It reduces eosinophil levels, which decreases inflammation. reslizumab (Cinqair): This intravenous drug is suitable for people with eos asthma aged 18 or above. It lowers eosinophil levels and reduces inflammation. dupilumab (Dupixent): Delivered as a shot, this drug helps reduce flares in people aged 6 and over with moderate to severe eos asthma or oral corticosteroid-dependent asthma. It can also help manage severe eczema (atopic dermatitis) and chronic sinusitis with nasal polyposis. Scientists continue to investigate new options for managing eos and other severe types of asthma.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d7a0669e-503f-4881-8244-08f7ee7f011b According to Wechsler, “This treatment doesn’t necessarily eliminate attacks or exacerbations, but in some people it does, and in other people it reduces them dramatically.”  	   
 Complications of Eosinophilic Asthma  	  Complications  	  Eosinophilic asthma can lead to complications. It can also occur with or possibly increase the risk of other conditions. Persistent inflammation with eos asthma may lead to cell changes in the airways, resulting in tissue damage, scarring, and long-term changes to airway structure. This damage may not be reversible.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ff6f407c-8074-456c-84a4-194cfbd18d10 Other complications or comorbidities include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762958505355-31b5-4df4-b985-57cc69a016d3 Nasal polyps Persistent sinusitis, rhinitis, or both, known as rhinosinusitis Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) due to a higher sensitivity to aspirin Sensitivity to other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Early treatment for eos asthma may reduce the risk of complications.   	   
 Living With Eosinophilic Asthma  	  Living With Eosinophilic Asthma  	  Eosinophilic asthma can be challenging, but medication and lifestyle choices can help you manage it. Here are some tips for living well with eos asthma:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293c72bdba-6e7c-4272-b6a2-a8d1b344345c Find a specialist doctor you can trust. You may need an allergist, pulmonologist, or both. The ACAAI has a finder tool for allergists and Apfed has one for a range of specialties . With your doctor, work out a treatment plan and follow it carefully. This includes finding the right medication, using it correctly, and attending follow-up visits. Learn more about eosinophilic asthma. The more you know about your condition, the more in control and less anxious you'll feel. For instance, you can sign up for a newsletter from dedicated sites such as Apfed . Keep a log of your symptoms and use it to pinpoint any triggers. Then do your best to avoid them. Speak with loved ones or seek counseling if living with eos asthma is causing anxiety, depression, or otherwise affecting your mental well-being. You might also consider joining a clinical trial to find new treatments for eosinophilic asthma. During a clinical trial, you’ll have access to highly specialized professionals. You may also have a chance to try new medications free or charge and before they become widely available.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292495f4aa-2266-4aff-b51e-48d48f1566ba  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Eosinophilic asthma, also called eos asthma, is a type of asthma that can happen when you have too many eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in your airways. Eosinophils help protect the body from infections and other invaders, but too many can result in an overactive immune response and persistent inflammation. This form of asthma can be severe, and treatment is essential. Early treatment can prevent long-term damage and complications. Eos asthma symptoms don’t always respond to the usual asthma treatments. If so, biologic or leukotriene therapy can often help manage this condition.   	   
 Resources We Trust  	  Cleveland Clinic: EosinophilsAsthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Understanding Eosinophilic AsthmaEOS Asthma Toolkit: Living With Eos AsthmaMayo Clinic: Asthma Medications — Know Your OptionsAmerican Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders: Eosinophilic Asthma  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/atrial-fibrillation/treatment/pros-cons-medication-ablation-atrial-fibrillation/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/atrial-fibrillation/treatment/pros-cons-medication-ablation-atrial-fibrillation/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Heart Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Ablation and Other Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) Treatments: Which Is Right for You?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 15:20:01 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Nearly 90 percent of people with atrial fibrillation don’t need to take drugs for abnormal heart rhythm after a minimally invasive ablation procedure.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Atrial fibrillation (afib) is a type of arrhythmia , or irregular heartbeat, in which the upper chambers of the heart don’t pump effectively. As a result, blood can pool in that area and raise the risk of serious complications such as blood clots , heart failure , or stroke .e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ca1df11b-592f-4063-98af-a9fed2779dce If you’re one of the roughly 12 million people in the United States living with afib,e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bc1b5999-3d2a-441e-b445-a49d46eb296e proper treatment can restore a regular heart rhythm, manage symptoms, and reduce your risk of complications. But it’s important to understand what treatment options are available and work closely with your doctor to find the right regimen for you.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296a496dd9-695b-40bc-8633-a14a0ce5b6fe  	   
 The Benefits of Catheter Ablation  	  Ablation  	  A catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure in which a flexible tube is inserted into a vein in your groin, arm, neck, or upper thigh. This tube delivers radiofrequency energy to destroy abnormal heart tissue and restore a more regular heart rhythm.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762947c4a095-13c4-45e4-b140-bc7eff726499 Historically, doctors treated afib with medications first. If that was unsuccessful, the next step would be catheter ablation, explains Oussama Wazni, MD , the section head of cardiac electrophysiology and pacing at Cleveland Clinic. “But the overwhelming evidence now is that people may be better off considering ablation right away.” More and more research shows that ablation maintains normal rhythm more effectively than antiarrhythmic drugs, and may also prevent hospitalizations, and thus should be considered a firstline therapy for afib.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a5c97133-efa3-4742-bc61-ba2d2685b4bde60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293c8d1c69-e146-4a13-a57e-c0d8ce9131d7 Ablation also comes with other potential benefits and risks. Reduction of Afib Symptoms One of the main reasons for a cardiac ablation is to control symptoms such as shortness of breath or heart palpitations and improve quality of life.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293fb8b140-220c-4dd0-b004-3c7668e00a9d Research shows that catheter ablation leads to significant improvements in quality of life in people with symptomatic afib in the year after the procedure.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295c170e0f-615f-435a-87f5-81d8eb5880cf It may also reduce the frequency and duration of afib episodes over the course of five years in young adults.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292bbd0b7f-529e-4de4-b122-ddcab9aef6e9 People often seek care from their doctors for symptom relief, says Dr. Wazni, and addressing afib symptoms is an essential part of treatment. Potential to Avoid Long-Term Medication Ablation may lead to decreased reliance on atrial fibrillation medications. In fact, data shows that nearly 90 percent of people with afib no longer needed antiarrhythmic drugs after the procedure.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298b96247c-accf-463c-bff4-f38faeb5dcc7 Ablation could also prevent afib from becoming more persistent or permanent, which can be much more difficult to treat and manage, adds Wazni. Risks and Side Effects While a catheter ablation treats atrial fibrillation, it does come with certain risks and side effects, which include:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762966b35d1d-c054-4c45-83d2-77933f5fd2d2e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762983776533-c57d-4ebb-86c5-9eceaa82a989 Bleeding or infection at the catheter insertion site Damage to a blood vessel or heart valve A new or worsening arrhythmia A slowed heart rate that requires additional treatment Blood clot in the lungs or legs Stroke or heart attack Pulmonary vein stenosis, or a narrowing of the veins that carry blood between the heart and lungs Kidney damage from contrast dye used during the procedure But the exact risks depend on various factors, such as the type of ablation and why it’s done. And success rates for this procedure are high. So it’s important to discuss the exact risks and benefits with your doctor to determine whether or not you should undergo an ablation for atrial fibrillation.  	   
 Ablation vs. Other Medical Procedures  	  Other Medical Procedures  	  Other noninvasive and invasive interventions may be used to treat and manage atrial fibrillation. Cardioversion Cardioversion is a nonsurgical procedure that uses quick, low-energy shocks to restore the heart’s rhythm if it beats irregularly or too quickly. Two types of cardioversion can be used to treat atrial fibrillation:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c526d4a1-356a-481b-8456-9a3352cccb96 Electrical cardioversion uses a machine with sensors to deliver a low-energy electrical shock to the chest to quickly restore normal heart rhythm. Pharmacological cardioversion , also called chemical cardioversion, uses medication rather than shocks to reset the abnormal heart rhythm. It takes longer to do so than an electrical cardioversion. “Cardioversion is an acute intervention to restore normal rhythm,” says Wazni. “It does not maintain the normal heart rhythm or prevent the recurrence of atrial fibrillation.” If you have this procedure, ablation or medication will still be needed to treat afib. Pacemaker Implantation A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device that uses an electrical signal to help your heart beat at a healthier rhythm. While it’s not typically used to treat atrial fibrillation, there may be some cases where it’s part of your management plan. For example, if your heart rate outside of afib is very slow, or if you also have heart failure, you may need a pacemaker to keep a normal heart rhythm.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293a2c2583-999b-4633-8777-5dd7b43f5761 “A pacemaker is an adjunct therapy to help manage afib — it does not get rid of or treat afib,” says Wazni.  	   
 What to Know About Antiarrhythmic Drugs  	  Drugs  	  Drugs were once considered the standard treatment for afib, but the conventional wisdom on when and how to use them to regulate heart rhythm has shifted. “A few years ago, we would always use antiarrhythmic drugs, and if those failed, we’d do the ablation,” says Wazni. “But now the landscape has changed to the point where we can do an ablation first. However, if the ablation doesn’t work — if the atrium is very diseased or has a lot of scar tissue — the ablation may not be successful on its own. And at that point, we may add an antiarrhythmic drug.” There are several drugs that may be prescribed to control heart rate and prevent complications related to afib. Beta-Blockers Beta-blockers have been used for decades as a first line therapy to help normalize a fast heart rate and treat arrhythmias like afib. They work by blocking the effects of the hormone epinephrine , also known as adrenaline, which helps lower blood pressure and widen veins to improve blood flow. Options include atenolol, metoprolol, and nadolol.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296d609d66-abdf-4f48-a4c3-007ff5d1280ce60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298b1049b8-44d0-4b07-9a07-1b8f06c098a7 Beta-blockers come with certain risks and side effects, including:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298b1049b8-44d0-4b07-9a07-1b8f06c098a7 Cold hands and feet Depression Dizziness or lightheadedness Shortness of breath Trouble sleeping Weight gain While they continue to be prescribed to treat afib,e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296d609d66-abdf-4f48-a4c3-007ff5d1280c some research notes that there’s no long-term safety and efficacy data around the use of beta-blockers to treat this condition, and the potential risks and side effects may not be worth it when other more favorable treatments are available.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c293bb63-dbf3-4af6-bc2f-4432f15091a8 Calcium Channel Blockers Calcium channel blockers are drugs that prevent calcium from entering cells in the heart and arteries, which allow blood vessels to relax and open. As a result, calcium channel blockers can help slow heart rate in people who have atrial fibrillation. Options include diltiazem and verapamil.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762949a8567b-a8b9-4540-a485-88ea833ec5b9e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762901dd0f9d-e4a1-4bd2-9590-2b44f7a510d5 Calcium channel blockers come with certain risks and side effects, including: Constipation Dizziness Fast heartbeat Flushing Headache Nausea Swelling in the feet and ankles Tiredness Research shows that calcium channel blockers may be less likely than beta-blockers to slow heart rate too much when used for people with nonpermanent afib.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762913de9f2a-0c8b-4744-88ce-f55e639760af Digoxin Digoxin falls within the class of heart medicines known as digitalis glycosides.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629d90ae861-d854-4163-b419-4131cb0aadfc When you have atrial fibrillation, digoxin may be prescribed to slow electrical signals in the heart and decrease your heart rate.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762935a707e5-2d7d-447d-9efe-475a62a8f4c8 Digoxin may come with certain risks and side effects, which include: Blurry or discolored vision Dizziness or lightheadedness Enlarged male breast tissue Headache Sleepiness Skin rash Upset stomach Other issues with heart rate or rhythm Digoxin may also lead to an increased risk of sudden death in people with afib, so other treatments may be recommended first.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762959240ed3-c331-4b09-a242-c2e572af9f50 Blood Thinners Atrial fibrillation can cause blood to pool in the heart, which increases your risk of developing a blood clot that can then travel to your brain and cause a stroke. Blood thinners, such as coumadin (Warfarin) don’t treat atrial fibrillation directly, but they may be prescribed to help prevent blood clots from forming, and in turn, reduce your risk of a stroke.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295105e3db-1d6b-45d6-9a33-513fd1527829 Blood thinners can lower the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation by up to 66 percent.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299043bfcf-10d2-4087-9560-0ea35af873fe A notable side effect that comes with blood thinners is an increased risk of bleeding. But a study led by Wazni found that a minimally invasive procedure called a left atrial appendage closure (which can even be done during a catheter ablation) resulted in significantly less bleeding than blood thinners — all while preserving the benefits of reduced stroke risk.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629dcf82e28-40c9-490b-aa88-928fa3356c08 “Even if you have a successful ablation, the risk of stroke is still moderate to high,” says Wazni, who emphasizes that continuing to take steps to reduce stroke remains essential.   	   
 How to Decide on Treatment  	  How to Choose  	  When you have atrial fibrillation, it’s important to work closely with your doctor to come up with the right treatment and management plan. “It’s a shared decision process,” emphasizes Wazni. You’ll want to consider factors such as:e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fd77ad09-bb41-4056-8494-204d7188a002 The type of atrial fibrillation you have Your afib symptoms Your age Your overall health (including any other health conditions you may have)  	   
 Questions to Ask Your Doctor  	  What type of atrial fibrillation do I have? Am I a good candidate for catheter ablation?Are there other afib treatments I should try before ablation? What signs of stroke should I be aware of?How do I know if my treatment is working?How often should I schedule afib checkups?Are there any lifestyle changes that may also help me manage afib and stroke risk?  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive, highly successful procedure that can be used as a first-line treatment for atrial fibrillation to help restore normal heart rhythm. Other treatment options, including medications like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, may also be used to treat afib in some cases. While atrial fibrillation can increase your risk of stroke, blood thinners or a procedure called left atrial appendage closure may reduce stroke risk. Make decisions in partnership with your doctor to determine the atrial fibrillation treatment regimen that’s right for you.   	   
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                <media:description><![CDATA[illustration of pills, heart with heart rate and surgical table]]></media:description>
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/migraine/guide/treatment/nerve-stimulation-devices/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/migraine/guide/treatment/nerve-stimulation-devices/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Neurological Disorders]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Nerve Stimulation Devices for Migraine Treatment]]></title>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Devices that deliver electrical or magnetic pulses to specific nerves or the brain may reduce migraine episodes or pain intensity.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you experience migraine , whether chronic or episodic, there may be a “zap” for that. Bad wordplay aside, nerve stimulation has proved to be an effective option for some people who have this often painful neurological disease. In general, the theory behind the approach is that electrical or magnetic pulses delivered to specific nerves or to areas of the brain can prevent migraine attacks or reduce the severity of symptoms during attacks. “The underlying theory is there are targets in the central and peripheral nervous systems that can be manipulated using electrical or magnetic pulses on nerves that are directly or indirectly involved in pain processing,” explains Matthew Robbins, MD , an associate professor of neurology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City. “In most people, I don’t see nerve stimulation replacing medication altogether, but it can be used alongside prescribed drug treatment to reduce migraine episodes or pain intensity,” says Dr. Robbins. “It may also help reduce reliance on medication to address symptoms,” he adds.  	   
 Device Types  	  Different Devices Target Different Nerves Nerve stimulation, sometimes called neuromodulation, isn’t one single approach. Although they generally work the same way, the methods vary according to which nerves are targeted in the procedure and how the stimulation is applied. These are the most commonly used approaches for migraine: Supraorbital stimulation targets the branch of the trigeminal nerve that brings sensation to the forehead, upper eyelid, and scalp. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) targets the vagus nerve, which extends from the brainstem to the abdomen and communicates with a variety of muscles and organs along its entire length, including the small intestine and colon. Occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) targets nerves on the back of the scalp. Remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) stimulates peripheral nerves in the arm, with the goal of blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS) is not aimed at any particular nerve but rather at the brain more generally.   	   
 Trigeminal Nerve  	  Supraorbital Stimulation In supraorbital stimulation, or external trigeminal nerve stimulation (e-TNS) — sometimes referred to as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) — your doctor recommends a specific level of microimpulses that target the upper branch of the trigeminal, or supraorbital, nerves, which research suggests are involved in migraine attacks. These pulses are delivered using a device that you place on your head when you feel a migraine attack coming on, or during an attack to relieve pain. The device is available with a prescription or over-the-counter (no prescription required) in many pharmacies. Once your doctor has suggested an appropriate level of stimulation for your migraine symptoms, you administer the treatment yourself at home. A review of existing research published in May 2020 by the Journal of Neurological Sciences found that e-TNS users had fewer migraine attacks and fewer days of migraine headaches per month and needed less of the prescription medicines they take to treat symptoms.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976299d19f2b6-1d17-4f51-bd1e-d7c9526a0d9a Cefaly The Cefaly Dual external e-TNS device is designed to be worn on the forehead. It uses magnets to attach to a reusable electrode that sticks to the skin with adhesive. The device can be used once daily for 20 minutes to prevent attacks and for up to 60 minutes during a migraine attack to relieve symptoms. The user chooses a preventive or acute program when applying the device and selects the intensity of the treatment. The device turns off automatically when the program is complete. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved the Cefaly device for the prevention of migraine attacks in 2014 on the basis of promising research data. The agency then approved the device for use in the treatment of migraine attacks in 2017. In 2020, the FDA cleared the Cefaly Dual as an over-the-counter product to prevent and treat migraine in adults ages 18 and older.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629bad518d1-067b-4b80-b51f-82eaa6b2d996 The Cefaly Dual, when sold as a package with 18 electrodes, each good for multiple uses, retails for about $500. The user will also need a charger and charging cable. Payment plans are available for those who qualify. Relivion Another e-TNS device, Relivion is a noninvasive headset that delivers pulses of electrical current to stimulate the occipital and trigeminal nerves. The headset has two sensors that sit on either side of the nose (similar to the nosepieces of eyeglasses) and is intended to be put on and activated at the onset of a migraine attack. The amount and type of modulation can be controlled via an app on a paired smartphone. The device received FDA clearance in the United States in March 2021 for at-home treatment of acute migraine in adults. It requires a doctor’s prescription. In the clinical trial on which the FDA based its approval, the results of which have not yet been published in a professional journal, 46 percent of users reported pain freedom at two hours, and 75 percent reported freedom from their most bothersome symptom — nausea, light sensitivity, or sound sensitivity — at two hours.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298ffa0359-cbfd-4430-a32a-e43c65e79f58  	   
 Vagus Nerve  	  Vagus Nerve Stimulation VNS is another self-administered approach in which a person with migraine uses a handheld device that delivers small amounts of electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve, which travels from the base of the skull to the abdomen. Users place the device over the nerve at the side of the neck.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ff40d759-23ca-4471-ba6d-3ed1935e3295 A study published in July 2020 by the journal Neurologist found that VNS provided pain relief within two hours of the start of a migraine attack, while approximately 30 percent of users were completely pain-free by that time.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ef676eb3-3149-41be-9fbc-3d6dcb8aa4ea GammaCore Sapphire GammaCore Sapphire is an FDA-cleared (in 2015) handheld device that allows users to self-administer small doses of noninvasive VNS therapy to treat cluster headaches and migraine. The rechargeable and reloadable device is designed for multiyear use. The device can be used for both acute and preventive migraine and cluster headache treatment. Users apply conductive gel to the two stimulation surfaces, then hold the device against the side of their neck, just below the jawline (either side of the neck will work), so that it can deliver small electrical pulses to the vagus nerve for two minutes at a time. The user controls the intensity of the pulses. The suggested timing of the two-minute treatments depends on whether the user is preventing or treating migraine, or preventing or treating cluster headache. Originally, GammaCore was approved for use in adults only. In February 2021, the FDA expanded clearance of the device to include the acute and preventive treatment of migraine in adolescents between ages 12 and 17. In July 2020, the FDA granted GammaCore emergency use authorization for people with COVID-19 who are experiencing asthma-related breathing difficulties. GammaCore Sapphire requires a doctor’s prescription. Before use, the device must be activated with an authorization code, delivered via a radio-frequency identification card. Without insurance, the GammaCore starter kit, preloaded with three months of therapy, costs $450. However, some healthcare insurance plans cover the device and will reimburse at least some of the charges.  	   
 Occipital Nerve  	  Implantable Occipital Nerve Stimulation Implantable occipital nerve stimulation involves the surgical implantation of a device that sends electrical pulses to the occipital nerve, which is located at the back of the head, just above the neck. It’s used primarily in people with chronic migraine for whom other treatments have failed.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629a89b6a1f-b639-49d6-9ba6-b6e49b08fbf2 A study published in the December 2020 issue of the journal Pain and Therapy found that the approach was effective in nearly 50 percent of people with chronic migraine who had an ONS device implanted.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762969eb1918-3c5e-434b-9302-6c03e3c283c8 Notably, ONS is different from other nerve stimulation systems in that it involves surgery, but the procedure is reversible. One implantable device currently in development, from Salvia Bioelectronics , uses mild electrical impulses to influence nerve activity, or the pattern of electrical impulses transmitted through nerve fibers that control how your body functions. The Dutch company is working on implantable thin bioelectronic foils that conform to the shape of the head to deliver neurostimulation. Specifically, the company’s implantable neurostimulation system (similar to a pacemaker) will be designed to use bioelectronic foil technology to disrupt the brain processes that cause migraine attacks in people for whom drug therapy has failed. In 2020, the FDA granted Salvia a breakthrough device designation for its implantable technology. The designation enables the company to have more frequent interaction with FDA regulatory experts as it prepares the device for approval.   	   
 Peripheral Nerves  	  Remote Electrical Neuromodulation Remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) may be particularly useful for people with migraine who are worried that using devices that apply electrical stimulation to the head area may worsen the pain associated with attacks. Uniquely, this approach is designed to stimulate the peripheral nerves in the upper arm. It is thought to reduce migraine pain by modulating a deep part of the nervous system involved in pain control. Specifically, REN activates pain control centers in the brainstem (the connection between the brain and the spinal cord), which blocks the pain signaling that occurs in migraine.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fe910f17-825f-4fdd-903b-41f398dbf20c Currently, REN is designed to be used at the first sign of a migraine attack. A study published in the September 2020 issue of the journal Pain Medicine found that up to 74 percent of people who used REN experienced pain relief within two hours, while up 36 percent of them were pain-free by that time. Less than 1 percent of the people in the study who used the approach had any related side effects.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294d803040-2e98-4088-9229-c57e60432e89 Nerivio Nerivio is an FDA-approved wireless remote neuromodulation armband for the prevention and acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in people age 12 and older. The device is controlled by an app designed to provide personalized treatments.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e439f8a2-b55c-4e4e-9d9f-b30f8d9f5c65 The app features a migraine diary that allows you to track treatment sessions and migraine attacks. You can share the diary with your doctor to guide your migraine management. Nerivio is available only with a doctor’s prescription at participating pharmacies and telemedicine providers. The first Nerivio device costs $10 with the Nerivio Express Savings Program, which requires that you have a pharmacy or medical insurance plan and that you give the pharmacy permission to run a benefits verification and receive any required prior authorizations. The cost of refill devices depends on the customer's insurance coverage plan. Each Nerivio device delivers eighteen 45-minute treatments. After 18 treatments, the battery no longer works, and the device will need to be recycled.   	   
 Magnetic Stimulation  	  Single-Pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation A potential preventive and acute treatment for migraine, sTMS can be administered at home by placing the sTMS device against the back of your head and activating it. The device delivers a short magnetic pulse (the length is preset by your doctor) that targets the layers of the scalp, the skull, the meninges (membranes that enclose the brain and spinal cord), the cerebrospinal fluid, and the superficial layers of the cortex, where it modulates the electrical environment of neurons involved in migraine attacks.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976295d671cd0-460b-4ccc-b72b-7cd3750b8f57 In a study published in May 2018 in the journal Cephalalgia , sTMS reduced the number of days that people with migraine experienced symptoms. Users also had a decreased need for rescue medication.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976292f993008-58f2-4012-995f-0462c7e3e9d4 SAVI Dual The eNeura SAVI Dual is an FDA-approved sTMS device that is battery powered, handheld, and can be used for both the prevention and treatment of migraine attacks in adults and children age 12 and older. The user places and holds the SAVI Dual firmly against the back of the head to cradle the base of the skull. With the push of a button, the device’s specially shaped electrical coils deliver a magnetic pulse designed to treat and prevent migraine attacks by interrupting abnormal electrical activity in the brain associated with them. The device automatically transmits a person’s treatment history to a cloud-based diary, which can be used to improve migraine management. You need a doctor’s prescription to use the SAVI Dual. A $350 monthly prescription fee includes unlimited acute treatments and daily preventive treatments.   	   
 Pros and Cons  	  Effective, Well-Tolerated by Most, but Expensive Even with nerve stimulation approaches that can be self-administered, people with migraine should consult their doctors before using them, Robbins emphasizes, even if they don’t require a prescription. Your doctor can help you determine which device is right for your migraine symptoms and whether it is safe for you to use, he says. Although the side effects of nerve stimulation differ depending on the approach used, most are mild, such as redness or irritation and muscle twitching in the area where the device is applied. A handful of people undergoing nerve stimulation have reported feeling light-headed or having a tingling sensation after treatment. Keep in mind, also, that there are situations in which nerve stimulation can’t be used. People with epilepsy or implanted electrical devices like cardiac pacemakers probably shouldn’t use the technology, Robbins notes. It may be a good choice for people who are avoiding taking medications because they are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, are older, or are taking many other medications, he says. The self-administered devices can be expensive and most aren’t covered by health insurance. Despite these considerations, nerve stimulation has an important advantage over most migraine medications. “Some drugs have been linked with what’s called medication-overuse headaches — headaches associated with repeated use of the medications themselves,” Robbins notes. “There doesn’t seem to be the same issue with nerve stimulation. To be honest, it’s a treatment I’d recommend to more patients.”   	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/is-it-safe-to-use-compounded-semaglutide-and-tirzepatide-for-weight-loss/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/is-it-safe-to-use-compounded-semaglutide-and-tirzepatide-for-weight-loss/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Weight Management]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Is It Safe to Use Compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide for Weight Loss?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 00:06:48 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[When insurance won’t pay for Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, or Mounjaro, people are turning to cheaper versions of compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide — despite the risks.]]></description>
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            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Demand for Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro has led to the rise of online companies selling what they claim are cheaper versions of the once-a-week injectable medications . But regulation is murky, and it is unclear if these alternatives are safe or effective. Patients face ongoing roadblocks to getting prescriptions and insurance coverage. Without a manufacturer’s coupon or insurance, Wegovy costs $1,350 a month, according to its producer, Novo Nordisk. Zepbound costs over $1,000, according to maker Eli Lilly . Pharmaceutical companies are also straining to produce enough of these medications to keep up with demand, leading to shortages. The result is the growth of a niche industry of so-called compounding pharmacies selling “homemade” versions of these weight loss drugs: compounded semaglutide (as a substitute for Ozempic or Wegovy) and compounded tirzepatide (as a stand-in for Mounjaro and Zepbound). In early 2024, a warning by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) focused on the potential dangers of compounded semaglutide, with the agency citing reports of unanticipated health problems in people using the medication. It’s a risk many people appear willing to take in their quest to lose weight. When Insurance Won’t Cover Wegovy, Desperation May Set In Sunnie (full name withheld for privacy), 50, has always had a hard time quieting her mind when it comes to food. “I feel like I’m hardwired to overeat,” she says. Obesity runs in her family. Her mother lost 100 pounds twice in her life but gained it back. Sunnie slowly gained weight while bearing and raising her three children, reaching a body mass index of 45. Her doctor put her on Contrave, a weight loss pill that combines bupropion (an antidepressant) and naltrexone (a drug used to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders). Contrave costs about $100 per month and is FDA-approved for long-term use in weight management. “It helped me control my thoughts about food by suppressing those desires and impulses in the brain,” says Sunnie. “But it stopped working.” She was ready to try again when her doctor wrote her a prescription for the semaglutide drug Wegovy. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a medication that mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1 that is released in the gastrointestinal tract in response to eating. GLP-1 prompts the body to release insulin, which reduces blood sugar levels, and interacts with the brain to curb appetite and signal a feeling of fullness.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e08f1f31-369a-4cbd-b34d-2f0b4ec1d07b The FDA approved Wegovy in 2021 for adults with obesity or for those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. That’s when Sunnie ran into a wall: Because she doesn’t have a weight-related condition in addition to obesity, her insurance wouldn’t cover Wegovy. “I felt so defeated. I was continuing to gain weight. I felt like I was out of control, and I needed something to get back in control,” she says. Sunnie works at a hospital, which is where she heard about a cheaper alternative to Wegovy: compounded semaglutide, available through a nurse who told Sunnie she was reselling it from a compounding pharmacy. A few coworkers were taking the medication with success, so Sunnie decided to go for it, buying a month’s supply for less than $300. “I understand there’s risk. I know it could be anything,” says Sunnie. “I feel desperate. I feel like gaining weight is bigger than me, and I’ve come to the realization that I need medication to help me.” Sunnie started losing weight quickly, and noticed a drastic reduction in her appetite, something that used to control her. “When I’m on weight loss medication, I can feel the difference between my brain telling me I’m hungry and my actual stomach telling me I’m hungry. I know I eat out of anxiety and boredom, and there are a lot of psychological reasons I eat, but I’m able to separate those on semaglutide,” she says.  	   
 Are Compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Legal? About 7,500 licensed pharmacies in the United States specialize in compounding.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762921a11808-7ae8-4800-bf30-91469f69de59 These pharmacies mix, alter, or combine FDA-approved drugs with different ingredients for people with particular needs, such as individuals who may be allergic to a certain dye in the brand-name medication. If there’s a shortage of a drug, compounded versions become legal in the United States. In May 2023, the FDA included both Ozempic and Wegovy on its drug shortages list , legalizing compounded versions of the drugs. The FDA recognizes that compounded drugs can fill an important need, but it also warns that they “pose a higher risk to patients than FDA-approved drugs because they do not undergo FDA premarket review for safety, effectiveness, or quality.”e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629e84ad882-bf83-422d-9948-494d6cf4451f Novo Nordisk says it does not sell its patented semaglutide for compounding, raising questions as to what exactly goes into compounded versions. However, the chemical formulas for semaglutide and tirzepatide are publicly available. No generic form of semaglutide exists, though compounded drugs are often marketed as such. The company has filed at least a dozen lawsuits against medical spas, weight loss or wellness clinics, and compounding pharmacies selling questionable compounded or so-called generic versions of semaglutide.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629129715ff-dcf4-4245-9bc6-de5ea48803f3 According to the FDA, compounded versions of Ozempic and Wegovy may swap out pure semaglutide for salt-based forms, which have not been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. The FDA has received reports of adverse effects from people who take compounded semaglutide. Pharmacies selling compounded semaglutide sometimes include vitamins such as B12 in the mix to allegedly boost weight loss, a claim for which there is no solid proof.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290ba77539-37d6-4bdd-bf82-635bdfc32bae  	   
 Compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Are Too Risky, Experts Say Juliana Simonetti, MD , a codirector of the comprehensive weight management program at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, says that it is “absolute insanity” that insurance companies so often deny coverage for injectable weight loss drugs to people with obesity, even for patients who have used these medications to get prediabetes under control. She understands what’s driving people to seek alternatives. But, she says, there is no way to know for sure the conditions that compounded drugs are created in, adding that anyone buying compounded drugs from a dubious source runs the risk of using medications that pose safety risks and may not even be sterile. “I’m very clear in telling my patients to not get compounded versions. I feel their pain and desperation, but I’m telling them not to do it because these are dangerous practices,” she says. Andrew Kraftson, MD , the director of the weight navigation program at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor, believes strongly in the value of medications like semaglutide and understands why people are scrambling to get the drugs. He points out that obesity is highly stigmatized and undertreated. “There’s this sense of urgency that’s driving people to make rash decisions,” he says. “They feel like, This is out there now. I should have been on it yesterday.” But without FDA oversight, Dr. Kraftson says, compounded versions are too risky. “It’s problematic that there is this inherent conflict of interest,” he says about providers who might be willing to compromise safety in pursuit of profit. Plus, he says, people who buy weight loss medications on the cheap aren’t typically getting the nutritional counseling to ensure that they’re staying healthy when drastically cutting calories . “Food as medicine is an important component here,” Kraftson says. “Anyone could lose weight on 800 calories a day in the form of Twinkies, but it doesn’t mean they should.”  	   
 Oral Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Some online compounding pharmacies are now selling semaglutide and tirzepatide in the form of a pill or liquid. These substances, purportedly using the same active ingredients that are found in Wegovy and Zepbound, are not swallowed but instead dissolve under the tongue. This is referred to as sublingual delivery. Are sublingual GLP-1 pills and liquid suspensions legal? Compounding pharmacies are allowed to change the form of prescription medications for patients when a doctor has indicated that “the commercially available medication is not appropriate,” says Tenille Davis, PharmD , the chief advocacy officer at the Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding. For patients with a severe fear of needles or allergies to inactive ingredients in injectable solutions, sublingual administration offers a solution. But there has never been any published study of sublingual GLP-1s, and the safety and efficacy of such substances may be extremely questionable. Dr. Davis says that at least one large compounding pharmacy has conducted in-house studies showing that semaglutide salts can be absorbed in the oral cavity through dissolvable tablets or tinctures placed under the tongue. But other experts are skeptical, warning that it’s likely that only small amounts of the active ingredient are absorbed this way. “I don’t think they will be effective,” says Dr. Simonetti. “We can’t take something that is injected and then just put it under our tongue and have it work the same way.” Some Compounded Drugs Are Riskier Than Others Simonetti empathizes with patients who are desperately trying to access these weight loss medications. “I understand people are desperate and how the decision rolls around to choose these medications from a compounded pharmacy,” she says. If someone does choose to purchase compounded semaglutide, Simonetti offers a few bits of advice to ensure the best possible safety. First, she recommends checking the FDA’s list of licensed compounding pharmacies . “This is a good place to start. You still don’t know what you are getting, but going with a company on this list reduces the risk that you’re injecting yourself with bacteria if it’s getting under the skin,” she says. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy also has a database that allows people to search for pharmacies by their website to weed out ones that are fraudulent.   	   
 Explore our recommendations for the best online GLP-1 programs, including Henry Meds, Found, and Noom Med.  	   
 People should always ask the manufacturer for information about how many milligrams of active ingredients are in each dose. Though the precise nature of these ingredients may be a mystery, having at least an idea of how much semaglutide-like substance is in each dose can help clinicians aid their patients with diet and medication management. “A lot of compounded drugs come in units,” Simonetti says. “I have no idea how many milligrams are in the unit, especially if they are mixing it with other ingredients.” If you can talk to your doctor before reaching out to a compounding pharmacy, Davis recommends asking about compounding pharmacies they’ve worked with before and trust. She also says people should call the pharmacies and ask about their quality program and for information on the tests that have been performed on their sterile products. The pharmacy should be willing to provide a certificate of purity that says that the medicine is pure and sterile. “If the pharmacist is hesitant to discuss these kinds of things, I would choose another pharmacy,” she says. Beware of Illegal GLP-1 Drugs While compounding pharmacies may seem to be operating in a regulatory gray area, other online suppliers engage in definitively illegal practices. A recent survey of the online marketplace identified more than a hundred websites claiming to sell semaglutide that can be ordered without a prescription. Pharmacies cannot legally provide GLP-1 drugs without a doctor’s prescription. When researchers ordered semaglutide from six of these websites, three suppliers never sent any product at all, and instead demanded more money: They were outright scams. The other three providers did send some medicine containing semaglutide, but lab tests showed that the active ingredient was included in inaccurate concentrations. One of the samples was contaminated with endotoxin and may have been poisonous.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762927d45f50-c15a-44a3-ac83-7863168f4eb8 Experts agree that using medications from illegal sources is especially dangerous, as the efficacy and safety of such medicines is completely unknown.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  Online compounding pharmacies have begun to offer a dizzying variety of knockoff GLP-1 drugs, but most experts are nervous about off-brand Ozempic and similar products. While the FDA has not assessed the safety or efficacy of any compounded drugs, you can take steps to reduce the risks of buying weight loss drugs online.  	   
 Resources We Trust  	  Mayo Clinic: Considering GLP-1 Medications? What They Are and Why Lifestyle Change Is Key to Sustained Weight LossAmerican Pharmacists Association: Frequently Asked Questions About Pharmaceutical CompoundingConsumer Reports: Telehealth: Should You Try an Online Doctor?Pew Trusts: What Are Compounded Drugs, and How Can They Be Kept Safe?FDA: Compounding and the FDA: Questions and Answers  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/best-and-worst-types-of-alcohol-for-weight-loss/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/best-and-worst-types-of-alcohol-for-weight-loss/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Weight Management]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[4 Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks for Weight Loss]]></title>
            <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jan 2025 21:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Forgoing booze altogether is ideal if losing weight is a health goal, but if you choose to imbibe, registered dietitians recommend certain low-calorie alcoholic beverages over others.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[Alcohol contains empty calories, and it inhibits the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, which can lead to deficiencies.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976296d5b7ff4-443a-4efd-97da-291f8a256e6e “Alcohol can not only cause a water weight increase but it’s also full of calories, so your actual weight can go up, too,” says Amanda A. Kostro Miller, a registered dietitian in Chicago. “The other issue is that once people start drinking alcohol, they tend to lose track of their health and weight goals.” Plans for just one drink may turn into two or three or four, or you may find yourself reaching for unhealthy foods once the alcohol kicks in. According to one frequently cited study, subjects’ diets were poorer on the days they drank alcohol.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762908b3cc7f-1630-413f-ab29-6387f23c25cc The usual advice is to drink in moderation, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines as up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629629ad97e-1841-41f7-9720-35fd4716b138 But if you’re trying to lose weight, it’s a good idea to limit your drinking even further to reduce calories. You can also think of alcohol as a treat: “Choose dessert or alcohol for the night, not both,” Kostro Miller says. Here are some low-calorie alcoholic drink options if you’re watching your weight .  	   
 4 Low-Calorie Alcoholic Drinks for Weight Loss  	  1. Red Wine (125 Calories for 5 Oz) Enjoying a glass of red wine with dinner has long been considered a healthy move because of its purported heart-healthy benefits — an idea that can be traced back to the 1980s.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290411867e-e0d6-4f1d-a879-f581c2bdf9fc And though there haven’t been long-term randomized trials that prove some of these claims, a dry red wine (like cabernet sauvignon or Syrah) is one of the lower-calorie adult beverages you can reach for, says Lori Zanini, RD , a certified diabetes educator based in Dana Point, California. A serving of 5 ounces (oz) of red wine has about 125 calories.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fcab29f1-f696-422a-9863-5bb6b3184a39 2. Light Beer (About 100 Calories for 12 Oz) If you’re in the mood for beer, go light. It’s another low-calorie option, Zanini says. You’ll save about 50 calories in 12 oz compared with a regular beer of the same size.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fcab29f1-f696-422a-9863-5bb6b3184a39 3. Booze on the Rocks (About 100 Calories for 1.5 Oz) Whether you’re into vodka or tequila, gin or whiskey, there’s no real difference in calories or carbohydrates — all are low-calorie alcohols, with about 100 calories in 1.5 oz.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fcab29f1-f696-422a-9863-5bb6b3184a39 Your best bet when sipping alcohol is to have it straight or with sparkling water or club soda, Zanini suggests. That’s because a whiskey drink, for example, can quickly go from 100 calories to 300 or more when you add sugary, high-calorie mixers. 4. Champagne (About 85 Calories for 4 Oz) You’ll save about 80 calories by choosing 4 oz of champagne over a sweet wine — that single glass of bubbly has about 85 calories.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629fcab29f1-f696-422a-9863-5bb6b3184a39 And while that might not sound like much, it’s possible that you’ll feel fuller and turn down a second drink as a result of the carbonation. Research found that women reported feeling more full after drinking sparkling water compared with flat.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762973aecf39-dc35-4801-a3e9-7d3b4a34d16e  	   
 Alcohol-Free Options for Anyone Looking to Lose Weight  	  Keep in mind: Mocktails are always on the table. Going liquor-free is the ultimate way to cut back on calories from alcohol. But you’ll still need to keep an eye on what’s going into the mocktails and choose a low-calorie — or better yet, no-calorie — water or sparkling water drink, Kostro Miller suggests. If you choose to drink alcohol on a given night, she says it’s a good idea to alternate between an alcoholic and nonalcoholic drink to keep your calorie intake in check.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  The only guaranteed tactic to support weight loss while maintaining health is to skip alcoholic drinks altogether. Drinking alcohol can lead to poor food choices, making weight loss efforts more difficult. If you do imbibe, going for low-calorie alcoholic drinks and skipping sugary mixers is a good way to minimize the extra calories you consume. Nonalcoholic options like mocktails can be a creative and satisfying alternative to beer, wine, or liquor.   	   
 Resources We Trust  	   Mayo Clinic: Alcohol Use: Weighing Risks and Benefits Mount Sinai: Weight Loss and Alcohol University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Weight Loss and Alcohol: Should You Quit Drinking to Lose Weight? Cleveland Clinic: Are Some Alcoholic Drinks Healthier?   	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/menopause-pictures/menopause-symptoms-that-may-surprise-you.aspx]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/menopause-pictures/menopause-symptoms-that-may-surprise-you.aspx]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Women&#39;s Health]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Menopause Symptoms That May Surprise You]]></title>
            <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jan 2025 20:59:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Muscle and joint pain, itchy skin, new body odor, and even so-called brain zaps can begin when menopause nears and estrogen gets low.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[For almost every woman, menopause comes with symptoms . On average, menopause happens between ages 45 and 55, but symptoms can begin up to 10 years before that happens, the period called perimenopause . Hot flashes are the most common complaint — as many as 3 out 4 women in the United States have them — but there are many other lesser known symptoms that can also be caused by the loss of estrogen that happens when monthly periods become irregular and eventually stop.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629ddef028d-b9ee-42e8-8b57-3591cc7ea714 These issues can affect everything from your joints to your nails — even your nervous system — and can have a major impact on quality of life. Keep reading to learn more about surprising menopause symptoms, why they happen, and what you can do about it.  	   
 Muscle and Joint Pain  	  Muscle and Joint Pain  	  During perimenopause and menopause, some women report that their muscles and joints hurt, but they don’t know why, says Vonda Wright, MD , an orthopedic surgeon and researcher in Orlando, Florida. “They say, ‘I don't know what happened, but I think I’m falling apart.’ And many times they’ve been told by other clinicians or read somewhere that it’s just part of aging,” says Dr. Wright. In fact, it could be a symptom of menopause. When estrogen “walks out the door,” it impacts musculoskeletal tissue, including muscle, bone, fat, and muscle-derived stem cells, because those all have estrogen receptors, she says. In her recent research on the symptom, Wright dubbed this phenomenon the “musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause,” which includes a group of conditions and symptoms that become more common in perimenopause and beyond, including joint pain, frozen shoulder (stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint), a loss of muscle mass, and worsening osteoarthritis.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629db3d2576-fadf-440f-ab2a-86e4eaa1e343 Research suggests that more than half of menopausal women have muscle and joint pain , which can be debilitating.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629c3f8e231-6371-48af-825a-0d1d98553121 “I had this, and it was devastating. I’m an athlete, and I could barely get out of bed,” says Wright. But there are a few things women can do to combat muscle and joint pain in addition to taking medication . After clearing it with your provider, Wright suggests lifting heavy weights and adopting a jumping practice to help stimulate bone density and build muscle. Activities like jumping rope or hopping on one leg have been shown to be safe and maintain or improve bone density in post-menopausal women — but appropriate instruction and supervision is important to reduce the risk of injury.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976293e0efb24-41e4-4ebf-909b-110c0d631004e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629954f793e-a6d3-4bc8-8533-1eec2372a9f2 Replacing sugary carbs with fibrous carbs (think broccoli ) as part of an anti-inflammatory diet may also help reduce muscle and joint pain, she says.   	   
 Dry and Itchy Skin  	  Itchy Skin  	  Dry, itchy skin is a common but uncomfortable symptom of menopause. As estrogen levels decline, so does your skin's ability to retain moisture. “The reduction in estrogen decreases natural oil production and collagen, making the skin thinner and more vulnerable to dryness and itchiness,” says Karen Carlson, MD , an ob-gyn at the UNMC Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. To combat dry skin , use a gentle, unscented soap when showering and moisturize afterwards. Apply lotion to areas of your skin that feel dry throughout the day.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976297979542d-b953-4cd7-a54d-77dd318d8b80  	   
 Loss of Breast Fullness  	  Loss of Breast Fullness  	  Many women may notice a change in the fullness of their breasts when they go through menopause, says Dr. Carlson. “The drop in estrogen levels leads to the shrinking of glandular tissue in the breasts, resulting in less dense and more fatty breast tissue,” says Carlson. Breast tissue becomes softer, which can make breasts look and feel different than in your premenopause days.  	   
 Metallic Taste in Your Mouth  	  Metallic Mouth Taste  	  A metallic taste in your mouth is an uncommon but recognized symptom for some women going through menopause. “Fluctuating estrogen levels can affect the taste buds and the pathways in the brain that control taste,” Carlson says. So-called burning mouth, which is also linked to menopause, can cause a bitter or metallic taste in the mouth. “Other symptoms [of burning mouth] include pain, discomfort, tingling, scalding, numbness, or a burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and tongue,” says Carlson.  	   
 Dry Mouth and Dental Problems  	  Dry Mouth  	  It's estimated that 1 in 4 women may experience a decrease in saliva flow when estrogen levels go down.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298fdab5c7-971e-4c54-b666-eea1b54f7509 “Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is primarily due to the decrease in estrogen levels, which can significantly reduce saliva production, leading to a dry feeling in the mouth and throat,” says Carlson. There is a direct link between hormonal changes and oral health during menopause, leaving women more susceptible to gum disease. If left untreated, this can lead to symptoms like bleeding gums, inflammation, and even tooth loss. e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976298fdab5c7-971e-4c54-b666-eea1b54f7509 Carlson recommends talking with your dentist about issues relating to dry mouth, burning mouth, or any type of gum disease.  	   
 Body Odor  	  Body Odor  	  Although menopause itself does not directly cause body odor, hormonal changes during this time can influence factors that might contribute to it, says Carlson. For example, when your estrogen levels drop, your hypothalamus gland is fooled into thinking you're overheated and causes you to sweat excessively, as during a hot flash, which can result in a not-so-pleasant body odor. e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976294427c432-8dc8-4a1f-b8dc-479ffe2e5454  	   
 Brittle Nails  	  Brittle Nails  	  Research suggests that the majority of women feel like their nails are dry and brittle after going through menopause.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976291ed6d6a0-f6b9-4ea7-9206-6f8d35525450 “The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause leads to reduced collagen production and diminished moisture retention, which can weaken the nails and make them more prone to breaking or splitting,” says Carlson. Additionally, hormonal changes may affect nail growth, she adds.  	   
 Dizziness  	  Dizziness  	  Though not as common, some women experience dizziness or lightheadedness during menopause. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly the drop in estrogen, can impact the nervous system and blood circulation, leading to occasional dizziness or lightheadedness, says Carlson. Menopause has also been linked to different types of vertigo , including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, which is triggered by changes in head position.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f0b4402d-95e2-4b86-890d-7c60994a89cf “Other menopause-related factors, such as sleep disturbances , anxiety, or changes in blood pressure, can also contribute to dizziness,” says Carlson.  	   
 Tinnitus  	  Tinnitus  	  Tinnitus , or the perception of ringing in the ears, is not a common menopause symptom, but menopause can contribute to tinnitus in some women, says Carlson. “The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can affect blood flow and nerve function in the auditory system, potentially leading to tinnitus. Hormonal fluctuations may also exacerbate stress or anxiety, which are known to intensify tinnitus symptoms,” she says. Hormone fluctuations may also play a role in Meniere’s disease, a chronic and disabling inner ear condition. People with Meniere’s disease have recurrent and spontaneous episodes of vertigo that often come with hearing loss, vision changes, and pulsatile tinnitus, which is a type of tinnitus that causes a thumping or whooshing sound in one or both ears.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629f0b4402d-95e2-4b86-890d-7c60994a89cf  	   
 Tingling, Numbness, or a ‘Creepy Crawly’ Feeling on the Skin  	  Pins and Needles  	  Unusual neurological feelings like tingling, numbness, itching, or a “creepy crawly” feeling on the skin can be caused by menopause, but it's not very common, says Carlson. “These symptoms, often referred to as paresthesia, again are linked to hormonal changes during menopause, particularly the decline in estrogen,” she says.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629594220a8-f6f4-4d03-b5fe-0f977dcafcd1 “Estrogen plays a role in maintaining healthy nerve function, and its reduction can lead to nerve sensitivity or disruptions. Additionally, stress, anxiety, or sleep disturbances during menopause may intensify these sensations,” says Carlson. Even though this change can be related to menopause, it can also be a sign of other more serious health conditions. If it keeps happening, talk to your healthcare provider. e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e597629594220a8-f6f4-4d03-b5fe-0f977dcafcd1  	   
 Electric Shocks and Brain Zaps  	  Brain Zaps  	  You may have heard women talk about “brain zaps” or electric shock-like sensations during menopause, and they are a real thing (though not a common complaint), says Carlson. “These can feel like mild to severe jolts of pain that radiate from the head or extremities and are typically related to hormonal fluctuations, particularly the decline in estrogen levels,” she says. There isn’t much research about this phenomenon, but the sensations are thought to be linked to changes in the nervous system and neurotransmitter activity during menopause. “Although they can be uncomfortable, these sensations are generally temporary,” says Carlson.  	   
 Bladder Weakness  	  Bladder Weakness  	  Bladder weakness can cause you to leak urine when you sneeze, laugh, jump, or lift something heavy. Also known as urinary incontinence , bladder weakness is a very common problem during and after the menopause transition, says Carlson. “Lower estrogen levels during menopause affect the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor and the urinary tract, leading to weakened support for the bladder. This can cause symptoms like urgency, frequency, or even accidental leakage of urine,” she says. Estrogen also helps with the elasticity and health of the urethra and bladder. A reduction of estrogen means those factors aren’t as strong, which can also make bladder control challenging. “Additionally, other menopausal factors such as weight gain and changes in the pelvic floor muscles can further contribute to bladder weakness,” says Carlson. Depending on the severity of symptoms, your provider may recommend dietary changes, pelvic floor muscle exercises ( Kegel exercises ), medications, or surgery.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e59762970c56426-054a-4033-aa85-5b73b9685704  	   
 Is Hormone Therapy the Answer?  	  Treatment  	  If women are bothered by these or other more common menopause symptoms, Carlson recommends that they talk with their provider — ideally a menopause expert. “Then, with joint decision-making regarding the individual risks and benefits, they can decide if a trial of hormone therapy (HT) is right for them. While HT could help, it is hard to know how an individual will respond until it is tried,” says Carlson. Systemic hormone therapy is recommended for the treatment of hot flashes and night sweats, and local estrogen therapy (with a cream, ring, or suppository) is recommended for vaginal dryness.e60dc2a1-f33c-4a05-9b50-8e3e8e5976290edb382a-f6c1-44d2-9ff6-318d2f89a28b However, hormone therapy can be considered to see if it helps with other symptoms, including less common ones, if the benefits outweigh the risks, she says.  	   
 The Takeaway  	  The menopause-related decline in estrogen can impact muscles and joints, skin, nails, the mouth, and bladder, which can negatively impact quality of life. Menopause-related hormonal shifts can also affect the nervous system, causing issues like tinnitus, dizziness, and “electric shock” sensations. Hormone therapy may alleviate some menopause symptoms, but a person should discuss their individual needs and risks with a healthcare provider for optimal treatment.  	   
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            <guid isPermaLink="false"><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/why-are-some-food-additives-that-are-banned-in-europe-still-used-in-the-us/]]></guid>
            <link><![CDATA[https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/why-are-some-food-additives-that-are-banned-in-europe-still-used-in-the-us/]]></link>
            <category><![CDATA[Diet &amp; Nutrition]]></category>
            <title><![CDATA[Which Food Additives Banned in Europe Are Still Allowed in the U.S.?]]></title>
            <pubDate>Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
            <description><![CDATA[Do chemicals like titanium dioxide and potassium bromate pose health risks even though they are okayed in the U.S.? Learn why they are controversial.]]></description>
            <dc:creator><![CDATA[]]></dc:creator>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[It might surprise you to learn that certain food additives found in bread, baked goods, and candy on grocery store shelves in the United States aren’t allowed in Europe. Likewise, European Union regulations prohibit the use of different drugs and hormones given to farm animals to promote growth or increase milk production that are permitted in the United States. How can a food additive be considered a cancer risk on one continent yet safe on another? Keep reading to find out how the United States' approach to food safety influences the ingredients in your food, and what you need to know about additives that are prohibited in Europe but still deemed safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). When It Comes to Additives, U.S. Regulators Focus on Probability, EU Considers Possibilities Europe takes a more precautionary approach to evaluating chemicals and additives compared to the United States, says Justin J. Kastner, PhD , associate professor in the department of diagnostic medicine and pathobiology at Kansas State University in Manhattan. “One key difference is that historically the United States has been more insistent in focusing on the probability or likelihood of hazards or bad things occurring, and the European Union approach has been more precautionary; they give attention to not just probabilities of something going wrong, but also the mere possibility,” says Dr. Kastner. That has resulted in the EU banning more additives than the United States, he adds. Food Industry Lobbying Helps Shape Policy in the U.S. The European Union is more conservative in the way they regulate food additives, agrees Sheela Sathyanarayana, MD , associate professor of pediatrics and adjunct associate professor within the department of environmental and occupational health sciences at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Sathyanarayana currently serves on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Scientific Advisory Board for the Toxics Substances Control Act. “Another difference between the United States and Europe is that the food industry has a very strong lobbying presence in the United States. A lot of times those voices are really heard, and they help drive the creation of regulation and policy that exists around these kinds of additives,” says Sathyanarayana. FDA Lags Behind Europe in Updating Regulations and Reevaluating Additives Although the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revised the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) so that chemicals may be evaluated before they are put on the market, it didn’t really account for the legacy of decades of things that are already out there, says Sathyanarayana. By contrast, the European food chemical review system recently implemented a system where they reevaluated all approved food chemicals, says Maegan McBride, MPH , science policy associate at the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) in Washington, D.C. CSPI is an independent consumer advocacy organization founded in 1971 that provides practical and science-based advice around food safety. “Because the United States doesn’t have a system in place for reevaluation, it means that certain chemicals haven’t been reevaluated since they were first approved, which could have been any number of years ago,” says McBride. “It’s important to reevaluate because the field of toxicology is always progressing,” she adds. Consumer Preference Is Helping to Reduce Use of Food Additives Manufacturers are really paying attention to some of these issues because now there are consumers who are saying, "We don’t want these things in our food," says Sathyanarayana. “Almost every manufacturer has a natural or alternative product line, or they have acquired one for their portfolio. I do think that there’s a trend toward paying attention to these kinds of things and hopefully trying to eliminate them when they can,” she says. Food Additives and Cancer: What’s the Evidence? There are definitely challenges in determining cancer risk of additives in humans, says McBride. “When there is a chemical of concern or it’s suspected that it’s associated with an adverse outcome such as cancer, it’s unethical to conduct the gold standard of research studies, which would be a randomized placebo-controlled trial in humans,” she says. “It would be unethical to administer something to someone that you thought might have potential to hurt them; that makes it difficult to get very strong evidence in humans and why it’s so common to see animal testing in these cases, or more observational studies in humans,” adds McBride. Although lab studies can’t always predict if a substance will cause cancer, most carcinogens that are found to cause cancer in lab animals are later found to cause cancer in people, according to the American Cancer Society . That said, most of the time animals are exposed to much higher amounts of the substance than a person who typically encounter and so it’s difficult to determine risk. According to the American Cancer Society, if a substance is found to cause cancer in animals “it is reasonable for public health purposes to assume that lowering human exposure will reduce risk.” Because most chemicals and additives known to cause cancer in animals have not been proven to cause cancer in people, they are sometimes called possible human carcinogens, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC ). RELATED: Food Rx: A Cancer Expert Shares What He Eats in a Day Additives That Are Banned in Europe That Are Allowed in the U.S. Here’s a rundown of food additives that aren’t allowed in Europe but are still used in the United States: Titanium Dioxide This additive is used for coloring and is found in Skittles, Starburst, baked goods, soups, broths, sauces, and sandwich spreads. “Titanium dioxide is something that can build up over time — it doesn’t get excreted very well,” says Sathyanarayana. The additive has been shown to be genotoxic in studies, which is why it is banned in Europe, she explains. Genotoxicity refers to the ability of a chemical substance to damage DNA, which is the genetic material in all cells, and it may lead to carcinogenic, or cancerous, effects. On May 6, 2021, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a statement that it no longer considered titanium dioxide safe when used as a food additive. The EU regulators didn’t find conclusive evidence on the toxic effects of titanium dioxide, but they couldn’t rule out a concern for genotoxicity. Consequently, they couldn’t establish a safe level of daily intake of the additive. Although the EFSA’s recommendation likely means the additive will be banned eventually, it hasn’t happened yet — that will be decided by the European Commission and Member States. Right now, neither the CSPI nor the EFSA have issued recommendations on whether people should eliminate titanium dioxide from their diets. Potassium Bromate This additive is used in white flour, bread, and rolls to increase the volume of the bread and give it a fine crumb (not crusty) structure. Most bromate rapidly breaks down to form bromide, which is harmless. However, bromate has been shown to cause cancer in animals, and trace amounts of the chemical may remain in bread which could potentially be a small health risk to consumers, says McBride. Bromate has been banned in most countries around the world except for Japan and the United States. In 1999, CSPI petitioned the FDA to ban bromate, and it recommends consumers avoid this additive. Many millers and bakers have stopped using bromate, and it’s rarely used in California because a cancer warning may have to be included on the label, according to the organization. In 1986, California created a law called Proposition 65 that requires businesses to provide warnings on product labels if it contains a chemical that may cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Some food and product safety experts consider the state a bellwether for such regulation. Azodicarbonamide This additive is typically found in bread and packaged baked good products, says McBride. According to CSPI , the two potentially risky chemicals form when azodicarbonamide is baked. One of those, semicarbazide, doesn’t appear to pose a risk to humans, but the second breakdown product, urethane , is a recognized carcinogen. Although the risk is small, CSPI claims azodicarbonamide isn’t necessary for the food supply and should be banned in the United States, and they recommend avoiding it. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) These additives work as preservatives for foods that contain oils or fats. It preserves foods and keeps them from getting rancid, says McBride. “There is concern for cancer risk with BHA,” she says. A previous study found that BHA caused cancer in the forestomach of rats and concluded that the additive should be classified in the category of “sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity” according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) criteria. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services stated that BHA is “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” in a 2011 report . CSPI recommends people avoid consuming BHA. BHT is the chemical cousin to BHA and the two compounds are often used together, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) , a nonprofit that works to protect public health. It’s not listed as a carcinogen, but there have been studies where rats fed BHT have developed cancer, and it has been shown to cause developmental effects and thyroid changes in animals, according to a safety report on BHA. EWG recommends avoiding BHT, especially when it’s used along with BHA. Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH) There was big movement that was featured prominently in the news a little more than a decade ago for the dairy industry to be hormone-free, says Sathyanarayana. “There are some brands of hormone-free dairy products available, but there are many that still contain them,” she says. “The major concern is that there are hormone-dependent cancers — there is concern that if you’re exposed those hormones, are you increasing your cancer risk down the line?” she explains. Not everyone agrees that this poses a risk, says Sathyanarayana. “Some people will say that these hormones aren’t biologically active hormones that are getting transferred to the human body, but others would say that we don’t know because all of that data comes from animal studies — it’s not coming from human studies,” she says. Hormones affect almost every system in our body, so if there is hormonal transfer that could influence health, she explains. “Many of those hormones used are steroid hormones such as testosterone and androgen, which are found naturally in our bodies, but if you have higher concentrations of them, they could certainly be associated with health risks,” she says. There isn’t a scientific consensus on whether products that come from rBGH-treated cows pose a risk to health, says Sathyanarayana. If you want to avoid milk with added hormones, buy products that state “rBGH-free milk” or “rBST-free milk” or “from cows not supplemented with rBST,” according to the Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP ). Color Dyes (Yellow No. 5, No. 6, Red No. 40) Synthetic dyes give color to food products, but they aren’t necessary, and they are often used create the impression that the food contains real fruits or vegetables even when they don’t, says McBride. “ We have some information that those dyes have been associated with hyperactivity and behavioral changes in kids. There’s not a huge amount of literature, but the small amount that we do have makes us concerned,” says Sathyanarayana. A report released in April 2021 by the California Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment found that current federal guidelines for safe levels of intake of synthetic food dyes may not be enough to protect children’s behavioral health. The agency concluded that children are exposed to multiple dyes in a day and their effects on the individual can vary. Guidelines for the FDA’s Acceptable Daily Intake levels (ADIs) are based on 35-to 70-year old studies; if newer research were used to revise those levels, they would be much lower, write the authors of the report. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics , existing research raises concerns about these dyes and their role in child behavior and exacerbating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eliminating them may be beneficial. CSPI recommends avoiding all three of these synthetic dyes. Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) This additive was once found in popular drinks like Mountain Dew and Gatorade, but pressure from the public, including an online petition from a Mississippi teenager, led Coca-Cola and PepsiCo to stop using BVO in their products. There are some beverages, such as the Keurig Dr. Pepper’s soda, Sundrop , and generic lemon-lime drinks, that still contain BVO. BVO is associated with potential health risks, including harm to the nervous system. One early study found that rats that consumed large quantities of BVO showed significant reproductive harm. The FDA’s position on BVO is that it can be used safely “on an interim basis” provided that drinks contained less than 15 parts per million in the finished beverage; the average drink that contains BVO contains about half that amount . CSPI recommends avoiding products that contain BVO. RELATED: How Safe Is the Food We Eat and Serve Our Families? How to Avoid Potentially Risky Food Additives The current regulatory system in the United States leaves much of the work of figuring out what’s safe or unsafe to the consumer, says Sathyanarayana. If you want to eliminate or reduce food additives in your diet, she offers these tips: Consume fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Try to focus on consuming fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables and move away from eating processed foods, she says. “You have to be practical about it. We live in an industrialized world, people are working a lot, and we don’t have time to make everything from scratch. You can make a lot of good food from frozen ingredients where you don’t have to do all the washing and chopping that some fresh vegetables require,” she says. Read product labels. “We’re putting a huge burden on consumers by asking them to do that — it’s really time consuming and hard. But if you are a label reader, selecting foods with fewer ingredients is typically the best way to go,” says Sathyanarayana. Foods that are labeled “organic” can help take some of the guesswork out. In packaged foods, those given an organic designation are prohibited from using ingredients that “have an adverse effect on human health,” according to the EWG . Synthetic ingredients added to organic packaged foods must also be reviewed every five years. Seek out resources to help you. Consumer advocacy groups such as CSPI and EWG provide lists of additives you should reduce or avoid. There also phone apps available to help you make sure the foods you’re buying are safe — just search “food ingredients scanner” in the App Store. Two such apps are Sift Food Labels and Ingredio , which use pictures of food ingredients on the label or a bar code and alert you of any potentially risky additives. Search for products with fewer and more natural ingredients. Snack bars are a good example of a way people can reduce the additives in their diet, says Sathyanarayana. “Some of these can have a very complicated list of ingredients. I would recommend seeking out the bars that have just a handful of recognizable ingredients — nuts, nut butters, or fruits,” she says. Don’t fall into the "all or nothing" trap. “Overall, when I talk with families and patients, we discuss what they can do to limit their exposure to processed foods and maximize nutrition and healthy eating,” says Sathyanarayana. You don’t have to be all or nothing, but try to reduce things that are highly proceeded and full of additives like ultra-spicy bright orange corn snacks, she adds.  	   
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