Alabama’s state Supreme Court ruling on in vitro fertilization (IVF) has triggered concerns among doctors about potential health risks. These cover women using in vitro fertilization and the impact on young cancer patients hoping to build a future family. The court’s decision, considering embryos created by IVF as children, has led to fears of civil… Continue reading Doctors Concerned Over Health Risks After Recent IVF Ruling
Category: Patient Experiences
Maternal Mental Health Worsening, Study Finds
Maternal mental health issues have become the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. This has surpassed other factors contributing to the alarming rise in maternal mortality rates. A comprehensive review found that mental health disorders, including suicide and opioid overdose, account for nearly a quarter of maternal deaths. This rate is almost… Continue reading Maternal Mental Health Worsening, Study Finds
Experts Alarmed by Rising Diabetic Amputations for Black Patients
The number of people with diabetes needing amputations is rising, and it’s affecting Black and Latino individuals more. This means more people are having their limbs removed due to diabetes complications. According to the American Diabetes Association, every 3 minutes and 30 seconds a limb is amputated due to diabetes in the United States. Each… Continue reading Experts Alarmed by Rising Diabetic Amputations for Black Patients
Using Scent Therapy to Help With Depression
A small trial suggests that “scent therapy” may help people with depression recall specific autobiographical memories (AMs) that are often challenging to access. The study involved 32 adults with major depressive disorder who were prompted to recall memories using familiar scents like coffee grounds, oranges, and Vicks VapoRub. The trial, described in the journal JAMA… Continue reading Using Scent Therapy to Help With Depression
What is Sundowning?
Sundowning, also known as “sundown syndrome” or “nocturnal delirium,” is a phenomenon characterized by increased confusion, agitation, and anxiety that tends to occur in the late afternoon, evening, or night. This condition is often observed in individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other cognitive impairments. What are the key things to know about sundowning? Let’s… Continue reading What is Sundowning?
Understanding Muscle Weakness From MS
Muscle weakness is a prevalent symptom of multiple sclerosis, and it occurs due to the damage to the nerves that control muscle movement. The immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin, leading to disruptions in the communication between the brain and muscles. As a result, individuals with MS may experience… Continue reading Understanding Muscle Weakness From MS
Studies Cited in Abortion Pill Ruling Retracted
Sage Publications, an academic publisher, has retracted several studies that tied to a Texas judge’s ruling to suspend federal approval of the abortion pill mifepristone. They retracted the studies after concerns over unreliable data and conflicts of interest came to light. These were because of the authors’ ties to the anti-abortion movement. Citing the Studies… Continue reading Studies Cited in Abortion Pill Ruling Retracted
Dealing with Chronic Back Pain
Chronic back pain stands as a widespread and debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide. Unlike acute pain, which often comes from injury or trauma and tends to resolve with time, chronic pain persists for extended periods. Effectively managing this necessitates a comprehensive approach that addresses physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. So let’s get into it. What… Continue reading Dealing with Chronic Back Pain
Getting a Good Night’s Sleep with High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure affects nearly HALF of Americans over 20, more than 122 million people! While there are a number of side effects, its correlation with inadequate sleep is well-established. The impact of sleep on hypertension is a two-way street, making it crucial for those with high blood pressure to prioritize quality sleep. Research indicates… Continue reading Getting a Good Night’s Sleep with High Blood Pressure
Screening for Cancer: The Higher Risk Faced by Black Americans
Cancer does not discriminate, affecting individuals of all backgrounds. However, recent studies have brought attention to the heightened risk that Black Americans face when it comes to cancer. Screening for cancer is critically important. Early detection can be a powerful tool in the fight against this formidable disease. Black Americans confront a higher risk of… Continue reading Screening for Cancer: The Higher Risk Faced by Black Americans