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How To Determine The Safety Of Children’s Over The Counter Cold Medications

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As parents, we know that at some point our children will come down with a cold and we will need to be prepared to help them feel better quickly. Many people go through a variety of over the counter cold and flu medications in an attempt to find just the right remedy to give to their children. Figuring out which medication is right for their symptoms can be a confusing task riddled with possible implications that could have an impact on your child’s health. 

What The FDA Recommends

Pharmacy shelves are packed full of pills and liquids claiming to ease the discomforts of a cold or cough, but as consumers, we are not versed in the ingredients and their possible side effects. Because of this, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has called for caution when it comes to over the counter cold medications. 

These types of medications are no longer recommended for children under the age of four, and the FDA recommends that only under the advice of a physician should children between the ages of four and six take them. 

The reasoning behind the FDA’s recommendation is due to the developmental growth of children, which impacts how their bodies are able to process certain medications. The American Academy of Pediatrics has endorsed these recommendations in an attempt to spare children from the unnecessary and potentially harmful medication related side effects. 

Recalls Of Over The Counter Medications

In addition to the recommendations on over the counter cold medication use for children are the recalls of certain products. Infant Ibuprofen and Children’s Motrin have both undergone recalls of some form. This is not uncommon as oftentimes recalls can be administered to certain include an entire product or merely certain specific lots, typically being triggered by production processes and standards. 

Staying On Top Of The Information

It is important to stay aware of the latest recalls and medical updates when you are choosing what medications to give your child. The Drug Law Journal publishes up to date information regarding all types of medical recalls, warnings, and findings, which makes it an outstanding online resource for parents who want to stay current on medical information that may affect their child’s health. 

Keeping Your Child Healthy 

Any medication you give your child should always undergo careful scrutiny, and it is imperative that instructions are carefully read in order to keep your child safe from harmful side effects. Making our children feel better when they are sick, however, keeping them safe and healthy is the top priority. 

Updated Guidelines For Treatment of Adolescent ADHD

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The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has revised the guidelines for the care of children and adolescents diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) which offers clinicians updated information and opportunities as they work towards providing treatment plans for patients in their care.

Caring for patients with ADHD is complex, and according to the updated treatment models, occurs best in a patient-centered medical home. These new guidelines have been updated from 2011, and can serve as sources of current applications and information for primary care pediatricians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and family medicine practices.

Establishing the diagnosis, these guidelines are based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).  While the DSM-5 guidelines are similar to those of 2011, there are two noteworthy exceptions.  Fewer problem behaviors for those age 17 and over are required, and evidence that symptoms began before the age of 12 years instead of age 7.

Also remaining essentially unchanged are the recommended courses of treatments for ADHD. Stimulant medications amphetamines and methylphenidate in various forms are typically the initial approach to counteracting the symptoms of this disorder. Additions included an increase in the number of extended-release forms of stimulant medications, such as Atomexetine, which remains a secondary alternative medication.

Alpha-2 agonists guanfacine and clonidine also continue to be preferred methods of secondary alternative medications.  These extended-release medications are also approved by the Food and Drug Administration as adjuvant treatments.

While behavior therapy is recommended as the first line treatment approach for preschoolers, it is noted in the new guidelines that descriptions of ‘behavior therapy’ for children remain vague, and more detailed treatment plans should be identified.

The predominant studies that were reviewed included recommendations for parents and caregivers that describe behavior management tactics for preschoolers diagnosed with ADHD. Valuing parent and teacher training in behavior management for high school aged children, several included studies outlined the importance of a continuum of care.

Additional concerns touch on the challenges that can be experienced by clinicians when seeking to implement these guidelines, including poor paediatric training in mental health, limited consultative services, and barriers to communication with schools.

The Drug Law Journal provides a wealth of information on updates to medical and mental health guidelines, pertinent information on drug recalls and lawsuits, and current treatment approaches for ADHD diagnosis as well as other health related topics. Staying informed and updated on current findings is an important piece of ensuring the best care is received.

Hormonal Birth Control Pills Linked to Breast Cancer

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Since the introduction of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) in the 1960s, women have been celebrating the opportunity to regain control of their reproductive health. And while OCPs are largely recognized as safe by the medical community, recent studies have indicated that combined birth control pills (those which use a variation of estrogen and progesterone type hormones) have been linked to an increase in breast cancer.

While these studies are still new, and the risk is considered quite low, the danger of taking these OCPs can be markedly high for those who are part of an at-risk demographic. We here at DrugLawJournal firmly believe that women should be informed of these risks to help empower them in making the best decision for themselves when it comes to birth control.

What did the studies reveal?

Back in 1989, researchers decided to follow nearly 120,000 nurses who ranged from their mid-twenties to their early forties to determine if there were any risks to taking oral birth control. When they followed up with these same nurses some twenty years later, the results were surprising. The researchers discovered that there was a slight increase in breast cancer incidences.

The risk was noted more frequently in the women who took what was known as a “tri-phasic” birth control pill. In fact, breast cancer wasn’t the only type of cancer found in these participants. These women also had an elevated likelihood of developing cervical cancer. On the other hand, there was a reduced risk of ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancer in these individuals.

Does this include all types of birth control?

Not all birth control is made the same. While the tri-phasic birth control as more commonly correlated with an elevated breast cancer risk, there are many different types of birth control on the market. Multiphasic birth control (the kind that has different doses of hormones administered depending on the stage of the menstrual cycle) wasn’t even introduced until the 1980s.

There are also monophasic birth control methods, progestin-only pills (POPs), and even IUDs. IUDs can include hormonal and non-hormonal (copper-based) intrauterine devices. While the same level of scrutiny hasn’t been given to these types of birth control, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re safe. It means that more research is required. Furthermore, for those who were affected by the OCPs, it’s important to remember that the lifetime risk of developing breast cancer was 13 in 100,000. That said, the risk is still there, and all women should be mindful of their own body’s reaction to birth control.

Can you reduce your risk of developing breast cancer?

Breast cancer has been associated with a variety of other factors. While OCPs are suspected to increase the chance of developing it over one’s lifetime, other things can come into play, too. Lifestyle, diet, and history of smoking can also increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer. By maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in healthy behaviors overall, the chance of getting breast cancer can be dramatically reduced.

Understanding Drug Recalls

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Whether or not you have a health condition that requires ongoing prescription medication use, or you are someone who rarely uses medication, it is important to know and understand if and how medication is recalled. It is important to be vigilant when using prescription drugs in order to ensure what you are taking is safe as well as effective.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the branch of the federal government that oversees the regulation and safety of prescription and over-the-counter medication, in addition to its other charges.  If a certain product under its jurisdiction is contaminated, defective, or poses otherwise potential negative health implications, the FDA may issue a public recall of that item.

Recalls are categorized by the FDA into three different classifications, and understanding these classifications is important when determining how a recall may affect you. In a Class I Recall, significant and immediate danger, serious injury, or death has been determined to be caused by the use of the product. 

Even those Class I recalls are rare, they should be obeyed as soon as you become aware of the situation.  In this event, the FDA will develop a plan for the manufacturer and the product involved to make sure compliance with the recall is trackable and complete.  Under these serious circumstances, the objective is to remove all of the affected items from the market as well as from people’s homes to ensure no further damage takes place.

If a Class II Recall is issued by the FDA, there is no immediate danger, serious injury, or death linked to the product, but the risk is still present.  Class II recalls are preventative in nature, once health and safety risks are involved and have been determined to be possible.  In this scenario, the FDA will work with the manufacturer to distribute information about the recall to the consumers, in addition to creating a plan to make sure all items are pulled from the market.

In the final category of Class III, recalls are issued where there is no immediate or perceived danger to health, but where items that have been released are in violation of FDA regulations.  This circumstance can happen when medications that are potentially contaminated during manufacturing continue to market against regulation.

There are times when medications or medical products make it to market and cause harm before problems have been detected by the FDA.  The best practice to ensure that the products you are using are safe, and remain safe, to use, is to check with the Drug Law Journal to see listings of product recalls and advisory information.  The Drug Law Journal is a comprehensive and up to date resource for medical and health related news and law.  Understand how your medications affect you and your rights if what you are prescribed is recalled.

Keeping Up To Date On Potential Dangers of Medications

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Chances are you have taken medicine in the last six months.  Over the counter medications are taken by four out of five adults while prescription drugs are used by almost half of American Adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control.  Drug companies continue to produce new medications that, for the most part, weave seamlessly into the industry causing little stir.

However, there are potentially dangerous consequences for going blindly into using any medication, regardless of it being prescribed or over the counter. Fortunately, it is easier than ever to learn about medications before we take, or continue to take them. 

Speaking with your doctor before taking any over the counter medications, including pain relievers, allergy medicines, and even nutritional and vitamin supplements, is the first and best measure to take before introducing any medication into your body.  This is especially important for people who have a history of kidney or heart disease, or who take blood thinning medications. 

Many supplements and over the counter drugs can react badly with existing prescription drugs or have the dangerous effect of making important prescription medications less effective than they should be.  Even taking too much of a seemingly harmless medication or supplement can pose a serious threat, even to an otherwise healthy person.

If you have questions, speaking to a pharmacist can also be an easy and quick way to find out what you need to know when it comes to any medication or supplement.  Most stores that carrie medications have in house pharmacists that can be helpful, and if that is not the case, local pharmacists in your community are more than happy to address any questions or concerns that you may have when it comes to drug safety and drug interactions.

It is always a good idea to check the safety of a drug or medication that you are about to take, or may already be taking.  Many times certain medications are deemed harmful, even after years of extended production and use.  Checking with the Drug Law Journal website is the most effective way to seek continued up to date information on drugs that are considered harmful or ineffective.

This site makes it easy to find out current information on your medication and up to date breaking information on drug recalls.  The Drug Law Journal also contains studies and articles on various topics relating to medications that can be useful when determining what you may need to address with your doctor or pharmacist.

It is worth remembering that you are your best advocate when it comes to your health.  Keeping up to date on prescription drugs and over the counter medication safety may seem to be something that you hope to delegate solely to your physician, but it is wise to take an active role in understanding what you are taking into your body.

DePuy Synthes

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Executive Summary

DePuy Synthes is a franchise of orthopaedic and neurosurgery companies. They have been part of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies since 1998. DePuy develops and markets products under the Codman, DePuy Mitek, DePuy Orthopaedics, and DePuy Spine brands. 

Notably, DePuy Orthopaedics also has one of the world’s most comprehensive portfolios of orthopaedic products and services in the areas of joint reconstruction, trauma, spine, sports medicine, cranio-maxillofacial, power tools, and biomaterials. Its primary products aim to reconstructure damaged or diseased joints and for repairing and reconstructing traumatic skeletal injuries.

Most recently, DePuy Synthes has had trouble with its Articular Surface Replacement technology and Pinnacle hip implants, with more than 20,000 people filing lawsuits against the company. Verdicts and settlements in the lawsuits have already totaled more than $6 billion.

History of DePuy Synthes

In 1895, a 35-year-old chemist and pharmaceutical salesman named Revra DePuy came up with the idea of starting a business to manufacture fiber splints that could be customized to fit patients and would be an advance over the wooden splints that were commonly used in the late nineteenth century.

DePuy opened his business, which he named DePuy Manufacturing Company, in a hotel room in downtown Warsaw, a city in northern Indiana that is home to several natural lakes and which DePuy had grown fond of during his work-related travels.

Even before Revra DePuy made his first sale, he made history. His business became the first orthopaedic manufacturing business in the world, and his decision to set up shop in Warsaw was the catalyst for Warsaw becoming the “Orthopaedic Capital of the World.”

Over the next quarter century, until his death in 1921, Revra DePuy continued to make splints and grow his business. He replaced his fiber splints with wire cloth splints. He added more than a dozen employees to the payroll. He also complemented his mail-order business with a small team of salesmen, one of whom was Justin Zimmer, who later started his own splint manufacturing company in Warsaw.

In the decades following Revra DePuy’s death, the orthopaedics industry changed dramatically. New scientific advances led to the development of artificial joints, as well as techniques for correcting spinal deformities, repairing broken bones with internal fixation devices and many other innovations. DePuy Manufacturing not only adapted to the changing orthopaedic industry, it helped shape it. Through a series of leaders, owners, acquisitions, collaborations and joint ventures, DePuy Manufacturing transformed from a company that made splints to a leader in developing and manufacturing implants and instruments to treat a wide range of diseases and disorders of the musculoskeletal and neurological systems.

Along the way, there were many company “firsts.” DePuy introduced the first mobile bearing knee system in the United States, the LCS® Knee System. It pioneered POROCOAT® Porous Coating, which is composed of sintered alloy beads that allow biological fixation to bone without the use of bone cement. During the 1980’s, DePuy’s AML® Hip System became the first cementless porous-coated implant indicated for biological fixation in the world.

Innovation and growth were further fueled by several mergers and acquisitions. In 1990, DePuy’s parent company at the time acquired Chas. F. Thackray Limited (Leeds, United Kingdom). Thackray played a key role in the development of cemented fixation through its work with Sir John Charnley, the “father” of total hip replacement. DePuy’s work in biologic fixation and Thackray’s contributions to cemented fixation continue to shape new innovations to this day. Interestingly, not only did DePuy go on to manufacture and market the CHARNLEY Hip for many years , it also had marketing rights for some time to the Müller® Hip, named after Swiss orthopaedic surgeon Maurice E. Müller, whose cemented straight stem has remained virtually unchanged since its inception decades ago.

In 1998, Johnson & Johnson, one of the world’s largest healthcare companies, acquired DePuy, by then known as DePuy, Inc. Later, in 2012, Johnson & Johnson acquired global medical device company Synthes, Inc., and combined that company with the DePuy franchise to create one of the world’s largest orthopaedic and neurological businesses.

DePuy Synthes Subsidiaries

DePuy Synthes has the following companies operating under it:

  • Codman & Shurteff, Inc.
  • DePuy Mitek, Inc.
  • DePuy Orthopaedics, Inc.
  • DePuy Spine, Inc

Popular DePuy Synthes Products

One of DePuy Synthes’ flagship products is the Attune Knee System lineup. The Attune rotating platform design increases the level of conformity to provide stability while delivering freedom of mobility. Rotating platform knees aim to restore more natural movement to the joint by allowing the bearing to rotate in the same manner as an anatomical knee. Rotating knees also are designed to reduce stress and wear on the implant by 94 percent.

The second-most popular product made by DePuy Synthes is the Pinnacle Acetabular Cup System (ACS). It is a modular cup system designed with a wide range of acetabular cup options, biological and mechanical fixation alternatives and advanced bearing technologies that allows surgeons the flexibility to choose intraoperatively from among the most advanced technologies available depending on their patients’ individual needs.

DePuy also manufactures the RECLAIM® Modular Revision Hip System, which combines design features with comprehensive testing and engineering. Designed to be a durable and flexible system to manage the unexpected in moderate to severe hip revision surgery.

Another product marketed by DePuy is the SUMMIT® Tapered Hip System, which has achieved over 15 years of clinical history, and it remains a viable treatment option for patients today. A comprehensive set of implants, featuring both cemented and cementless options, treat a wide range of patients with differing needs. The SUMMIT Tapered Hip System utilizes a common set of instrumentation. The streamlined approach maximizes efficiency in the operating room, while still providing intraoperative flexibility.

For the spine, DePuy manufactures the EXPEDIUM® 5.5 System, which provides technological advancements to treat a range of spinal pathologies. The EXPEDIUM Spine System offers a comprehensive solution for rigid posterior fixation of the thoracolumbar regions of the spine.

DePuy Synthes Product Recalls and Lawsuits

  1. In 2010, DePuy Orthopaedics recalled its ASR XL Acetabular metal-on-metal hip replacement system on August 24, 2010. The recall came after data from a study indicated that the five year failure rate of this product is approximately 13%, or 1 in 8 patients. Even if the defective device is replaced, it can leave behind dangerous, possibly deadly fragments that may not be discovered for years. DePuy identified reasons for the failure of the hip replacement system as component loosening, component malalignment, infection, fracture of the bone, dislocation, metal sensitivity and pain. Additional complications from the hip replacement system may include increased metal ion levels in the blood, bone staining, necrosis, swelling, nerve damage, tissue damage and/or muscle damage.

About 93,000 persons worldwide received an ASR implant. The first lawsuit in the United States against DePuy Orthopaedics was filed on June 15, 2010. 

On March 17, 2016, United States District Judge Ed Kinkeade, after receiving the juries verdict, signed final judgment and issued a combined award of $120 million against DePuy Orthorpaedics Inc, and a combined award $240 million against Johnson & Johnson.

  1. In December 2017, DePuy Synthes recalled a stand-alone element of its Sigma HP partial knee replacement, the Sigma HP PFJ cemented trochlear implant, “based on elevated revision rates observed as part of the company’s post-market surveillance process.” “Further distribution or use of the affected implants is to cease immediately, and the product is now discontinued. The company recommends that surgeons use alternative implants or consider a total knee replacement,” the company said in a field safety notice dated December 2017.
  2. More than 20,000 people have filed lawsuits over DePuy’s Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) and Pinnacle hip implants. Verdicts and settlements in the lawsuits have already totaled more than $6 billion. The metal-on-metal technology used in DePuy’s Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) and Pinnacle hip implants offered high-hopes of long-lasting implants when it first hit the market, but it was plagued with problems and many implants failed within just a few years.
  3. Plaintiffs say friction between the all-metal parts released metal ions into the body, which led to complications and implant failures – and, ultimately, 20,000 lawsuits. Settlements and verdicts involving the hip implants total roughly $6.2 billion, though courts have reduced some of the jury awards. As of July 2019, there were more than 11,000 lawsuits still pending over DePuy hip replacements and more lawsuits are likely to be filed. Of those, 9,893 were lawsuits over the Pinnacle hip and 1,434 were over the ASR hip.

DePuy Synthes Settlements

  1. In December 2018, Bloomberg reported that DePuy offered to settle roughly 3,300 Pinnacle lawsuits for $400 million. That would have resolved roughly a third of the active lawsuits over the hip replacement. Bloomberg relied on court documents from the MDL in Texas federal court for its reporting. 

In February 2019, HarrisMartin Publishing reported that DePuy was also willing to reach settlements with 17 plaintiffs who won jury verdicts in three bellwether trials. That announcement came as the MDL court was preparing to retry one of the cases. No details of the negotiations were released at the time.

Sources: https://projects.propublica.org/docdollars/company/100000005601https://www.drugwatch.com/hip-replacement/depuy/lawsuits/https://www.jnjmedicaldevices.com/en-US/companies/depuy-syntheshttps://www.beckersspine.com/orthopedic-a-spine-device-a-implant-news/item/44397-depuy-synthes-reports-1-9-drop-in-sales-for-2018-5-things-to-know.htmlhttps://www.jnjmedicaldevices.com/en-EMEA/product/expedium-55-spine-systemhttps://www.massdevice.com/revision-rates-prompt-recalls-johnson-johnsons-depuy-synthes-zimmer-biomet/

Men’s Health Concerns

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The spectrum of men’s health is a varied area of genre-related issues that are directly connected to testosterone secretion, sexual fitness, and patterns of behavioral changes due to hormonal imbalance. Although there are various drugs and supplements available for the maintenance of male health and fitness, adopting simple lifestyle changes along with the intake of a nutritious diet can help combat many diseases and physiological disorders.

Men’s Health: Facts

The various ailments and diseases that males suffer from are mostly due to neglect of not consulting a doctor or lack of maintaining good eating and lifestyle habits. Men are more prone to risks like cancer, depression, heart diseases, and faster aging. Also, statistically, men are more unlikely to pay a visit to the doctor for regular check-ups or at the onset of an anomaly, putting themselves to the risk of various health conditions. However, most of these diseases and health discrepancies are treatable, and in some cases, do not even manifest if a healthy and fit lifestyle is maintained.

Aging in Men

Hormonal changes in men affect their physique and behavior throughout their lives. Genetically speaking, men are prone to suffer from muscle dystrophy, blood clotting, and Fragile –X syndrome. Men are more physically active than women and tend to suppress their emotions. All these collectively give rise to mental illness or unintentional fatal risks like suicide or homicide. Also, men are twice as likely to suffer from alcohol-related health issues or accidents under DUI.

Health Risks in Men 

Although diversity prevails, men go through smoke and alcohol abuse or fatal accidents. Hormonal changes after 40s result in the loss of muscle mass which is again the cause for weight gain. Risks and anomalies like diabetes, heart diseases, and high blood pressure are common in men. Later on, in their lives at around 60s, they go through hair loss and enlarged prostates. With age, many physical issues begin to emerge and as a result, maintaining good food habits along with regular checkups is necessary.

Regular Checkups

It is important to go for regular screenings and checkups to combat health-related problems before they begin to show bigger symptoms. Statistically, men are more likely to suffer from diabetic, lung, and heart-related problems as compared to women. Some recommendations for basic screenings in men include:

  • Colon Cancer
  • Depression
  • Diabetes
  • High Blood Pressure
  • HIV
  • Lung Cancer

Common Diseases in Men

Overall, men’s health is more susceptible to conditions like high blood pressure that is again directly related to heart failure, increased risks of venous or arterial thrombosis, stroke, and kidney failure and aneurysms. Cancer is another major health issue affecting men of all ages. Some of the most common types in men include lung, prostate, and testicular cancer. Depression in men causes many to contemplate suicide, undergo stress and mental instabilities, and behavioral changes. However, most of these issues if diagnosed early can be treated and by maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle, the chances of getting affected by any of these also reduce to a substantial amount.

Sexual Health in Men

The spectrum of sexual health in men is a highly significant area and their wellbeing is often directly associated with how good or bad their sexual conditions are. Testosterone being the primary sex hormone in men drives their libido and acts in promoting pleasurable activities. Sexual health in men is often affected by psychological, physical, and interpersonal factors. Sex can be hailed as one of the biggest driving forces in both men and women’s bodies but it has its downsides too in the form of sexually transmitted diseases like STDs. Drugs and supplements that promise to eradicate various problems and induce better sexual health sometimes pose substantial risks in men. Overall, there are various areas in the spectrum of male sexual health than needs to be monitored.

Sex Enhancement Drugs

Long-term use of male sexual enhancement drugs like Viagra or Cialis can cause various side effects. It is better to consult a doctor before administering any drug just by seeing promising advertisements.

Erectile Dysfunction

Caused due to various reasons like age, stress, low testosterone levels, erectile dysfunction is one of the commonest sexual health discrepancies in men.

Fertility

Production of healthy sperm is often hindered due to long-term consumption of drugs as side effects, drinking, smoking, etc.

Contraceptives

Contraceptives should be used not just to block pregnancy but also sometimes, to avoid sexually transmitted diseases as well. In men, contraception can be practiced through two resources; surgical vasectomy and the use of condoms. Condoms are an irreplaceable contraceptive method that stops STDs from spreading as well as hinder the flow of sperm into the vagina causing pregnancy. Vasectomies, on the other hand, are sterilization with less than 1% failure rate. Surgically driven, the procedure aims at blocking the pathway between urethra and testes and hence stops the flow of sperm from the testes. They are also reversible about 95% of times.

Health Tips

To live a longer life without risks, the following health tips will help in leading a life without these complexities.

  • Staying physically active
  • Maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet
  • Maintaining an ideal body weight
  • Keeping alcohol consumption in control
  • Giving up smoking habits
  • Managing stress and depression
  • Driving safe
  • Avoiding STD contamination
  • Practicing mentally-stimulating activities
  • Regular check-ups and screenings

Drug Risks

Everyday drugs can often lead to health issues in men that sometimes pose substantial risks. The following are some of the most common drugs and their symptoms in men.

  • IVC Filter- Migration, breakage
  • Avastin- Heart attack, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal perforation, hemorrhage
  • Crestor and Statins- Low cholesterol, strokes, heart attacks, Type 2 diabetes, kidney failure
  • Beta Blockers and Diuretics- Erectile dysfunction
  • Jalyn- High-grade prostate cancer
  • Norvasc- Gynecomastia, acute blood pressure
  • Prinivil- Decreased libido, liver damage
  • Risperdal- Gynecomastia

Overall Verdict

The life and health of a man can be an ideal example of a fit and healthy body if minor changes are adopted in their everyday practices. From eating and sleeping well to exercising in moderation, avoiding risky drugs and paying regular visits to the doctor will ensure long-lasting wellbeing.

Living with Diabetes

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Diabetes, a metabolic disease causes your blood glucose or blood sugar level higher. The food that you usually eat supplies glucose to your body. Insulin is the hormone which helps the glucose to get into your body cells and in turn, it produces the energy level. Diabetes is caused when your body is no longer able to make or supply insulin properly.

According to the research of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approx 29.1 million Americans are suffering from diabetes. However, the untreated high blood sugar level can affect your kidneys, nerves and other organs and lead it towards damage.

Different types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes:

This autoimmune disease destroys the pancreas cells where the hormone insulin is made. The cause of this attack is still unknown to the researchers. And it is reported that almost 10% of people are suffering from this Type 1 diabetes. This type of diabetes is also known as “juvenile” as it is often diagnosed in children and young adults. 

It destroys the healthy tissues of your body and gives birth to certain illness that encourages some infections like measles, flu, and mumps. This life-long disease comes up with a No Cure signal.

Doctors suggest daily insulin injections to treat this Type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes:  

On the other hand, Type 2 diabetes is caused when the person’s body is not anymore producing and using insulin efficiently. The body resists the sugar build-ups and leads you towards this second type of diabetes. The report says that an estimated 26 million Americans adults are suffering from this Type 2. According to the doctors, approx 3.7% of adults between 20-40 age are suffering from this disease.

It used to be known as adult-onset diabetes or non-insulin dependent diabetes. Nevertheless, it causes major complications to your health. Particularly, it affects the smallest blood vessels that nourish nerves, kidneys and eyes. Also, Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. 

Type 2 diabetes gives the symptoms of a progressive disease that may get worse as the time progresses. Doctors prescribe higher doses of medications along with insulin injection as the remedy of this disease.

What are the Symptoms?

Though Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are said to have similar symptoms, people with Type 1 experience these symptoms sooner than the Type 2 diabetes patients. The symptoms of Type 2 sufferers are milder than the Type 1 people and that’s why the Type 2 diabetes often goes unnoticed.

Let’s check the common symptoms of diabetes:

  • Frequent Urination
  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Feeling very hungry – even if you have consumed enough food
  • Blurry Vision
  • Bruises or cuts takes excessive time to heal
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Tingling, pain or numbness in feet or hands (type 2)
  • Losing maximum weight – even if you are eating more (type 1)
  • Dry itchy skin

Gender Differences

Symptoms in men:

Men with diabetes are often seen to have a decreased interest in sex drive. The erectile dysfunction is also noticed and they start developing poor muscle strength as well.

Symptoms in women:

Women face urinary tract infections, dry and itchy skin, as well as yeast infection, start developing.

Low blood sugar with Type 1 diabetes:

The symptoms of hypoglycaemia take place in your body if you are suffering from Type 1 diabetes. A sudden drop in the blood sugar level is noticed if the patient is consuming more insulin than required. An unhealthy lifestyle can cause low blood sugar levels in patients with Type 1 diabetes.

The symptoms of hypoglycaemia are noticed when the blood sugar level goes below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms like – nervousness, headaches, irritability, hunger, rapid heartbeat (palpitations), sweating, weakness, shaking, and nausea are found in the patient’s body. 

Risk associated with Type 1 diabetes:

Doctors are not sure about the cause of Type 1 diabetes but they suspect it to be a hereditary component. The tendency of developing autoimmune disorder may transfer from one family member to another. In the case of children born to fathers with Type 1 diabetes may develop this symptom.

Chromosome 6 – the threadlike structure is said to be the central part of a cell. In this place, the genetic information is usually held in the form of genes. The genetic connection takes place in chromosome 6 for the Type 1 diabetes. It takes the form of an HLA i.e. human leukocyte antigen. This gene complex, therefore, produces certain proteins which are considered to be responsible for the regulation of one’s immune system. However, having one or more HLA doesn’t always develop type 1 diabetes.

Risk associated with Type 2 diabetes:

Some people think that gaining excessive weight increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. But some other factors cause Type 2 diabetes and moreover, not all people with this type of diabetes are suffering from overweight issues.

A checklist offered by The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases for type 2 diabetes patients includes:

  • Patients age 45 years or older
  • Obese or overweight
  • Patient’s family background (if anyone has diabetes)
  • Patient’s origin: African American, American Indian, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, Alaska Native or Pacific Islander
  • Higher than normal blood glucose
  • Blood pressure level ( higher/normal) 
  • If the patient has a high cholesterol level
  • Are not very physically active 
  • Suffering from depression
  • Any problems with heart, brain or legs 

How to prevent Type 1 diabetes?

A person suffering from Type 1 diabetes cannot easily prevent the disease as several risk factors associated with it will remain unchanged. However, one must prevent the pancreas to get injured. The pancreas injuries are often caused by car accidents and if such things ever happen, then take immediate medical assistance from the doctors. On the other hand, avoiding alcoholic drinks and fatty foods can help one preventing acute pancreatitis. 

How to prevent Type 2 diabetes?

Choosing perfect diet food will help a patient to lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Also, a person should increase the level of physical activity say at least 30mins of activity regularly. The changes, of course, won’t come overnight. So, set your goals and start slowly to prevent these acute diabetic issues.

Women’s Health

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Health problems in men and women are similar to a long extent, but women’s health includes various gender-specific issues that deserve special consideration. The term women’s health refers to a broad spectrum of physical and mental health problems that are an exclusive concern for women. They go through dramatic physical and mental changes due to the changes in their reproductive systems. Proper diet, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stress management are some of the key things that can keep women’s health healthy and going.

Women are twice as likely as men to get migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, etc. Their bodies go through major changes all through their lives, leading to different health concerns in different age groups. Women are more prone to mental health like depression, anxiety and eating disorders during their physiological transitions. During adulthood, a wide range of sexual issues like infertility, STD and birth control gains impetus. Post-menopause, women suffer from disorders due to hormonal changes, however, these diseases, if diagnosed and treated early are curable and women can lead a healthy life just by maintaining simple health tips.

Some facts about women health

  • Diseases like Cancer, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and depression are some major health risks associated with women’s health.
  • Stress and depression are more common in women in comparison to men
  • Women’s sexual health is affected by reproductive issues, birth control measures, and STDs.
  • According to reports women in the United States and also other countries are more affected by osteoarthritis than men.
  • Women suffer from UTIs more than men.

The Aging Process of Women

Women’s life is immensely affected by their reproductive cycle in different stages. Physical changes in women occur due to the changes in their estrogen levels during adolescence, maturity and old age.

After conceiving, girls instantaneously start showing physiological changes. Even girls develop breasts and are born with the milk-duct system while still in the womb. Right from childhood, girls develop concerns regarding their weight. Approximately at the age of eight or nine, girls’ ovaries begin to produce estrogen that leads to breast development and also pubic and underarm hair growth start at this age.

Post-Menopause Life of Women

There are a lot of changes in women experiences after menopause. Usually, menopause in women begins in the late 40s and early 50s and officially regarded when a woman doesn’t have her periods for one whole year. During menopause, the progesterone and estrogen levels fluctuate. With the decrease in estrogen level, many tissues in the body including the breast lose elasticity and hydration. The risk of depression and physical fatigue is very high after menopause usually because circumstance makes women lonely. There also occur some physical problems especially related to dermatology and weight gain/loss. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, surrounding loved ones and leading a stress-free life is the best way to deal with the post-menopause phase.

Common diseases in Women

Though men and women suffer from the same conditions but the diseases affect them differently. To begin with, high blood pressures cause different health issues in women. While women have a lower risk of high blood pressure but men and women have a higher risk of blood pressure after the age of 65. Also women, who usually don’t have high blood pressure before menopause, develop this condition after it.

Women are at a higher risk of metabolic syndrome that causes high blood pressure, abnormal lipid levels, high glucose levels, increased waist size, etc. throughout their lives. As already mentioned that women are at higher risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, amongst them, the type of cancer that is exclusive in women-only is breast cancer. If detected at an early stage, with proper treatment, breast cancer in women has a higher rate of survival.

Osteoporosis is a common health concern that comes with aging and even before. Older adult women are mostly affected by this health condition for which they need to follow some specific routine, some medication and certain changes in the lifestyle.

Also, more women than men suffer from anxiety and depression. This condition can cause great harm to the overall health of women, affect their ability to work, sleep, and feel stress-free. Depression also leads to the suicidal tendency in women.

Sexual Health and Fertility

Sexual health in women refers to the wellbeing of women’s sexual activity and their participation. Apart from physical factors, sexual health is affected by social, interpersonal and psychological factors. Sexual activity is not only possible due to the sexual organs, hormones, the brain, and body. Other psychological factors like-emotions, expectations, and experiences affect sexual health too.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), Endometriosis, Illicit Birth Control Means, Hormonal Methods, Intrauterine devices (IUDs), Natural Family Planning (NFP), Barrier methods are some of the concerns related to the sexual health of women. While these concerns have been considered and practiced by women, however, it is very necessary for every woman and their partner/family to sensibly deal with any issue regarding these aspects. There are various modern-day diagnosis and treatment that can easily cure such health concerns.

Some Health Tips For Women’s health and wellbeing

The following tips are informative and helpful for women of different age group-

Physical Activity and fitness-

 Some easy activities like walking, gardening, stretching, dance, and music can keep women healthy both mentally and physically. Dedicating at least half an hour to any of these activities is necessary.

A Healthy Diet:

 While women are considered to look after the health of the family, they should never estimate their health. A balanced diet, a properly scheduled meal plan, intake of protein, minerals, fiber, and carbohydrate is necessary to be at best. Avoid taking too much sugar and salt, food with high-cholesterol to maintain blood pressure level and cardiovascular diseases.

Take Proper Medications:

While depending too much on prescription drugs is not a good thing for both men and women, however, women should never ignore any symptom that doesn’t make them g=feel good. Visit doctor routine checkups.

Maintain Healthy Weight:

Maintaining a healthy weight is the key to keep all the health concerns away. Balance your calorie consumption with proper calorie-burning activities.

Limit Smoking and drinking:

Smoking is another key reason for different health concerns in women. Also, alcohol intake must be reduced.

Stay Hydrated:

Drinking plenty of water and fluids is necessary for detoxifying your body.

Veterans’ Health Concerns

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When it comes to healthy aging, study after study prove that enjoying active and energetic lifestyles are important to lead a healthier and fulfilled life. Most of the countries in the world are witnessing an elder population explosion and veterans already account for a considerable percentage.  Signs that come with aging are unavoidable but again there are some sensible and practical ways to acknowledge the changes that come with age. Along with physical and mental concerns longer lives financial concerns, especially in this era where there are only a few traditional pensions. Also, in comparison to any other age group, seniors take more prescription drugs, visit doctors frequently and become more dependent on family members or caregivers.

 Ageism is Hurting Veterans

Ageism can be defined as prejudice against senior people and, like any other prejudice, creates rigorous issues in society. According to the World Health Organization, ageism is rampant in countries with great economic status, like the USA. While the citizens of this country pay great importance to living standards, sadly aging is seen as a devastating process that poses a threat to their prized possessions. While excess drug intake affects veterans’ cognitive and physical functions, they also become the victim of everyday environment and tend to become displeased by healthcare providers who subsequently may not cater to their closest needs.

Erroneous Diagnosis

Diagnostic errors are relatively common in older people. Their reactions to pharmaceuticals and symptoms of diseases can be misinterpreted by doctors and other healthcare providers. Also, many senior people may be more susceptible to the wrong diagnosis that not only endangers their health but also lead to opportunity costs for the healthcare systems.

Strokes Due to Drugs

 Many real-life stories showcase the reflective consequences of ageism in healthcare. A report by the Alliance of Ageing Research said about a woman named as ‘Mrs. G’ whose life took a U-turn due to misdiagnosis and wrong treatment. While she was quite independent at the age of 82, worked three days a week, she changed after she feels in her home and hit her head. Following the accident, she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and started taking medication as prescribed by the doctors.

Eventually, Mrs. G’s condition improved but soon deteriorated. She was forced to use a wheelchair and even if she tried to stand, she would stiffen. Medications were further increased and gradually she lost lucidity and was sent to a rehabilitation facility. Later, a nurse recommended her daughter to see a geriatric specialist in a different hospital who concluded that Mrs. G didn’t have Parkinson’s and stopped her drug intake. Tests showed that wrong drug intake caused her a series of strokes that irretrievably damaged her brain. Even though Mrs. G stopped taking those drugs, she was unexpected to recover completely.

Care by loved Ones

According to reports non-paid caregivers like family and friends provide most assistance for senior people. They help a veteran in their daily work like eating, shopping, bathing, cleaning homes, etc. While the need of care is reaching height, the numbers of caregivers are decreasing day by day, mostly because low fertility, increased divorces, a higher rate of childlessness and increased rate of staying single, etc. therefore, veterans will have fewer members in their family to care for them. Studies show that if the needs of the caregivers are not addressed, their lives will be at the state of increased risk in every aspect right from health to quality of life.

Elder Abuse and Risk

According to the National Center on Elder abuse, one out of every 10 senior citizens in the U.S has experienced abuse of some form. Lack of social support is one of the key reasons for this. As a result abused older people become more dependent on caregivers, who eventually suffer mentally, physically and financially.

Negligence and abandonment are also regarded as forms of elder abuse other than sexual, physical and emotional abuse. Veterans diagnosed with Parkinson’s are more likely to experience abuse due to their lack of ability to communicate, reductions in memory and impaired judgment.

The Importance of Nutrition for seniors

While eating right one of the key requirements for older adults, aging affects a lot of things that lead to improper nutrition. The medication causes changes in taste and color, other gum diseases and dental problems prevent from eating what one likes. Older people who have lost their ability to smell, taste or identify colors are likely to receive less protein, vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates due to lack of eating enough. 

Nutritionists recommend making eating an interesting activity for the seniors just like the kids. Adding colors, spices that are not harmful and also texture can help. Green leafy vegetables and those with bright colors like bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes can make food enjoyable. If allowed, a little amount of cheese, butter, nuts, and olive oil can enhance the taste buds of the veterans.

More Illness, Many Doctors

Older adults are likely to have more than one health issues at the same times which mean they need to see more than one doctor for treating them. As a result, they take medicines prescribed by different doctors and this increases the risk of drug toxicity. It is always advisable not to take medicines for every health conditions, especially those can be cured by bringing some changes in lifestyle and food habits.

Vaccines

Last but not least, vaccines play a major role in senior people over the age of 50 years. According to numerous surveys, about 45,000 older adults die each year due to disease complications that could be otherwise prevented by vaccines. In general older people tend to avoid getting vaccinated because they think it is not necessary or even due to lack of adequate knowledge. Also, they might think that vaccines can have side effects.

However, vaccines don’t have major side effects and taking vaccines at the right time can prevent them from illnesses that can lead to hospitalization, disability and even death in the long-run. Some common vaccines for seniors and are Flu, chickenpox (varicella), if not received in childhood, Tdap or Td (Tetanus, whooping cough, diphtheria)

MMR (Mumps. Measles, Rubella), if not received as a child and born in 1957 or afterward.

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