Blog – Medical Research News and Interviews

25 Jul

Posted at 14:59h in Mental Health Research, Stress

Mental Health Notice: If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, please seek help immediately. Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7), text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or call 911 in an emergency.

Cannabis and CBD Product Notice: Cannabis and CBD products are not FDA-monitored or approved for the treatment of anxiety, depression, or any other mental health condition and are not legal in all locations. Effects vary significantly between individuals. Do not use if you are pregnant, nursing, or may become pregnant. Keep out of reach of children. Children and pets should not be exposed to these products. Cannabis and CBD products may interact with alcohol and other drugs including prescription medications. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before using any cannabinoid product, especially if you have an existing health condition or take other medications.

Feeling low or having anxious thoughts occasionally is quite normal, as life is unpredictable. But depressing thoughts can start to affect your quality of life if left unaddressed. So you must identify the root cause or take appropriate interventions. People who tackle life's struggles with a resilient mindset stay happy and contented. The fact is, minor lifestyle adjustments in the form of stress management make you less reactive to routine stressors. Here, explore some simple strategies to reduce anxiety and boost your mood for mental health support.

For a deeper look at how cannabidiol specifically may interact with anxiety pathways, see this recent MedicalResearch.com report on why CBD affects anxiety differently in each person.

<div style="background:#fff4e5;border-left:4px solid #e07b00;border-radius:4px;padding:16px 20px;margin-bottom:1em;font-size:0.95em;color:#5a3e00;line-height:1.7;font-family:Georgia,serif;"> <p style="margin:0;"><strong>Mental Health Notice:</strong> If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, please seek help immediately. Call or text <strong>988</strong> (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7), text <strong>HOME to 741741</strong> (Crisis Text Line), or call <strong>911</strong> in an emergency.</p> </div> <div style="background:#fff4e5;border-left:4px solid #e07b00;border-radius:4px;padding:16px 20px;margin-bottom:1.5em;font-size:0.95em;color:#5a3e00;line-height:1.7;font-family:Georgia,serif;"> <p style="margin:0;"><strong>Cannabis and CBD Product Notice:</strong> Cannabis and CBD products are not FDA-monitored or approved for the treatment of anxiety, depression, or any other mental health condition. Effects vary significantly between individuals. Do not use if you are pregnant, nursing, or may become pregnant. Keep out of reach of children. Children and pets should not be exposed to these products. Cannabis and CBD products may interact with prescription medications. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before using any cannabinoid product, especially if you have an existing health condition or take other medications.</p> </div> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">Feeling low or having anxious thoughts occasionally is quite normal, as life is unpredictable. But depressing thoughts can start to affect your quality of life if left unaddressed. So you must identify the root cause or take appropriate interventions. People who tackle life's struggles with a resilient mindset stay happy and contented. The fact is, minor lifestyle adjustments in the form of stress management make you less reactive to routine stressors. Here, explore some simple strategies to reduce anxiety and boost your mood for mental health support.</p> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">For a deeper look at how cannabidiol specifically may interact with anxiety pathways, see this recent MedicalResearch.com report on <a href="https://medicalresearch.com/researchers-found-why-cbd-affects-anxiety-differently-in-each-person/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#1a7abf;">why CBD affects anxiety differently in each person</a>.</p> [IMAGE GOES HERE] <!--more--> <h2 style="font-size:1.4em;margin-top:2em;margin-bottom:0.5em;font-family:Georgia,serif;color:#1a1a2e;">5 Coping Strategies for Optimal Mental Wellness</h2> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">Life comes with ups and downs, and you often face hurtful moments. But if you fail to overcome the negative emotions, they can ruin your health with chronic issues. Have a look at some practical strategies to regain your inner peace amid chaos.</p> <h3 style="font-size:1.1em;margin-top:1.5em;font-family:Georgia,serif;color:#1a1a2e;">1. Breathing Exercises</h3> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">During stressful situations, our nervous system goes into fight-or-flight mode. We experience rapid breathing, a rapid heart rate, and palpitations. To get back to a relaxed state, different breathing exercises work effectively. Slowly inhaling and exhaling signals the brain about safety and a peaceful atmosphere. To achieve this, you can try box breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, resonant breathing, and similar techniques. Try to pick the one that you find most convenient to perform amid chaos.</p> <h3 style="font-size:1.1em;margin-top:1.5em;font-family:Georgia,serif;color:#1a1a2e;">2. Natural Stress Relievers</h3> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">With a stressed mind, it feels overwhelming to do any workout, breathing exercises, or even journaling. So, you need some natural stress relievers, like calming herbal teas or therapeutic cannabinoid products like <a href="https://cbd.market/cbd-edibles" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#1a7abf;">edibles</a>. Lavender and chamomile are two popular herbal teas known for their relaxing, soothing effects. Having them before bed also promotes sleep hygiene by helping you successfully wind down. Before using any natural stress relievers, consult your healthcare provider to avoid any side effects.</p> <h3 style="font-size:1.1em;margin-top:1.5em;font-family:Georgia,serif;color:#1a1a2e;">3. Moderate to Low-Impact Workouts</h3> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">Having regular physical activity of low to moderate intensity is an effective way to tackle anxiety and mood swings. Based on research, jogging, swimming, and walking for 15 to 30 minutes, when performed three times a week, boost mood. Exercise stimulates the production of endorphins, the feel-good neurotransmitters. You become less reactive in stressful situations and stay composed, making rational decisions. On the other hand, a sedentary lifestyle is a known risk factor for developing many mental health issues. So be physically active to support both physical and mental fitness.</p> <h3 style="font-size:1.1em;margin-top:1.5em;font-family:Georgia,serif;color:#1a1a2e;">4. Gratitude Journaling</h3> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">Writing about all the little good things happening in your life and appreciating them wholeheartedly comes with many positive effects. You can shift your mind away from unpleasant events and redirect it towards good things you are grateful for. Research also <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10393216/#sec27" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#1a7abf;">supports</a> the role of various acts of gratitude in positive moods, emotion regulation, and life satisfaction. This habit also promotes positive thinking, making you more optimistic in the long run.</p> <h3 style="font-size:1.1em;margin-top:1.5em;font-family:Georgia,serif;color:#1a1a2e;">5. Laughter Therapy</h3> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">Laughter therapy is a quick fix for a depressed mood. Laughing intentionally, even if you don't feel like it, has positive effects on mental health. Laughing promotes the secretion of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, the feel-good hormones, boosting your mood shortly. It may sound silly to laugh in a bad situation, but it truly works. So, when you feel sad, try watching some funny videos or remembering a funny incident from your past. This helps you have a good laugh and supports your mental resilience.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.4em;margin-top:2em;margin-bottom:0.5em;font-family:Georgia,serif;color:#1a1a2e;">Bottom Line</h2> <p style="font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:18px;line-height:1.8;color:#1a1a2e;">Mental relaxation is achievable, irrespective of uncontrollable life factors, through a healthy lifestyle. Stress coping strategies, such as breathing exercises, laughter, workouts, or CBD edibles, help reduce anxious thoughts, mood swings, and similar issues. However, these therapies work effectively only with medications for intense or chronic issues. So, be proactive and take care of your mental health with preventive measures.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px; color: #666; background: #f0f0f0; border: 1px solid #d8d8d8; padding: 14px 18px; margin-top:2em;"><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition. Some links are sponsored. Products, services and providers are not warranted or endorsed by MedicalResearch.com or Eminent Domains Inc. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website.</p>

24 Jul

Posted at 20:39h in Accidents & Violence, Author Interviews, JAMA, Ophthalmology, UCSD

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

[caption id="attachment_75222" align="alignleft" width="200"]Dr. Don Kikkawa Dr. Don Kikkawa[/caption]

Don Kikkawa, MD Distinguished Professor, UC San Diego Viterby Family Department of Ophthalmology Chief, Division of Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Vice-Chairman, Department of Ophthalmology UCSD

 

[caption id="attachment_75223" align="alignleft" width="125"]dr_leo-miller-md Dr. Leo Miller[/caption]

Leo Meller, MD

UC San Diego School of Medicine, Class of 2026

   

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Dr. Kikkawa and Dr. Meller: Hockey can put players at risk for eye injuries because of high-speed pucks, sticks, and close-contact play. While many sports-related eye injuries are preventable, there has been limited national data on the frequency and severity of hockey-related eye injuries across different types of hockey. Our research used 20 years of U.S. emergency department data to better understand these injuries. Similar work examining recreational sport eye injury trends — including our related research covered previously on MedicalResearch.com on serious and preventable eye injuries treated in emergency settings — underscores why population-level surveillance data matters for guiding prevention efforts.

[caption id="attachment_75224" align="aligncenter" width="500"]ice-hockey-ocular-injuries-pexels.jpg Photo by Luke Miller[/caption]

24 Jul

Posted at 16:18h in Orthopedics

Spine care can feel personal because back and neck problems affect far more than one part of the body. Pain, numbness, weakness, limited walking, poor sleep, and reduced mobility can change how someone works, exercises, travels, cares for family, and moves through an ordinary day. For many patients, finding the right spine specialist is not just about getting a diagnosis. It is about finding someone who can explain what is happening, review realistic options, and help them take the next step with confidence.

At Vertrae, Dr. Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS, brings that type of leadership to spine care in the Dayton and Miamisburg, Ohio area. For broader context on how evidence guides spine treatment decisions — from conservative care through surgery — see this overview of what the evidence now says about spinal manipulation for lower back and neck pain.

vertrae_highlights_the_spine_care_of_dr_kamal_woods.jpg

24 Jul

Posted at 14:08h in Medical Imaging, Technology

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has become one of the most significant advances in modern medical imaging. By allowing clinicians to perform ultrasound examinations at the patient's bedside, it supports faster assessments and more informed clinical decisions. Recent developments in wireless handheld ultrasound technology are making these benefits even more accessible across hospitals, primary care settings, ambulances, and remote healthcare environments.

Unlike traditional cart-based ultrasound systems, wireless handheld devices connect to smartphones, tablets, or dedicated displays, providing high-quality imaging in a compact, portable format. As healthcare providers continue to prioritize efficiency and patient-centered care, these devices are changing how diagnostic imaging is delivered. For context on how point-of-care ultrasound is being integrated into medical education and clinical training, see this interview on POCUS as one of the most significant advances in bedside patient care.

[caption id="attachment_75214" align="aligncenter" width="500"]portable-ultrasound-machine-pexels.jpg Photo by MART PRODUCTION[/caption]

24 Jul

Posted at 12:27h in Telemedicine, Testosterone

Hormone Therapy Notice: Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a controlled prescription medication. It should only be prescribed following evaluation by a licensed physician, confirmation of low testosterone through appropriate laboratory testing, and a review of potential contraindications. TRT is not appropriate for all patients. Individual results vary, and a prescription is never guaranteed. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing, or stopping any hormone therapy. This article is for educational purposes only.

Online testosterone therapy has made hormone care easier to access. A patient can complete an intake form, arrange laboratory testing, meet with a licensed provider, and receive ongoing follow-up without repeatedly visiting a physical clinic. That convenience has also made the market harder to evaluate.

Some telehealth TRT providers operate as structured medical practices with licensed clinicians, required lab work, transparent pricing, and ongoing monitoring. Others advertise a low monthly rate while charging separately for medication, consultations, labs, supplies, or dose adjustments. Choosing an affordable online TRT clinic should not mean choosing the cheapest subscription on the first page of search results. The real goal is to find a clinic that provides appropriate medical oversight at a price you understand before signing up. For background on how telehealth TRT programs work in practice, see this overview of how men can start testosterone therapy from home through telehealth.

legitimate_trt_clinic

24 Jul

Posted at 12:10h in Technology

Trust is a strange thing to sell. You can't put it on a pricing page or squeeze it into a feature list. Yet it's the one thing every client is actually buying when they hire a development partner, whether they say it out loud or not.

A polished portfolio gets a company through the first meeting. What keeps a client past the first project is something harder to fake: a track record of secure builds, honest timelines, and outcomes that hold up months after launch. TekRevol has spent years building that reputation the slow way, one project at a time, across industries where a single security lapse or missed deadline can cost far more than a bad app review. For context on what healthcare organizations are looking for when evaluating technology partners in 2026, see this overview of healthcare technology priorities for clinical companies.

[caption id="attachment_75208" align="aligncenter" width="500"]building-trustworthy-app.jpg Photo by FOX [/caption]

24 Jul

Posted at 11:49h in Nutrition, Supplements

Supplement Notice: Nutritional supplements including thermogenic or fat metaboliser products are not evaluated or approved by the FDA for safety or efficacy. These products should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Do not use if you are pregnant, nursing, or may become pregnant. Supplements may interact with prescription medications and may be contraindicated in individuals with certain health conditions including cardiovascular disease, thyroid disorders, or hypertension. Always consult your physician before beginning any new supplement regimen.

Weight management is influenced by a complex interaction of nutrition, physical activity, genetics, metabolism, and lifestyle habits. As scientific understanding of metabolic health continues to evolve, researchers are increasingly exploring how specific nutritional approaches may complement healthy weight management strategies. Among these approaches, thermogenic nutrition has attracted growing interest for its potential to support energy expenditure when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Rather than focusing on quick results, modern weight management emphasizes evidence-based strategies that encourage sustainable, long-term health.

For additional context on how thermogenic supplements fit into a broader weight management picture, see this overview of thermogenic weight management and fat loss supplements. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, sustainable weight management depends primarily on healthy eating patterns, regular physical activity, and long-term lifestyle changes.

The Science Behind Thermogenic Nutrition and Modern Weight Management

24 Jul

Posted at 10:01h in Fertility

Most people researching IVF have seen a headline figure somewhere online — perhaps £5,000 or $12,000 per cycle — and assumed that was roughly the ballpark. The reality is that IVF treatment costs are built from many moving parts: clinic fees, fertility medications, laboratory procedures, add-ons, and the everyday life costs that pile up around appointments. A single cycle is often not enough, and planning for just one round leaves many families financially blindsided when a second or third becomes necessary.

This article gives you an honest, all-in picture of what IVF realistically costs in 2026 — not just the advertised price for one attempt — along with a clear framework for estimating your likely total spend, building a workable budget, and setting financial boundaries so that money supports your treatment rather than controlling it. Research on online fertility calculators and IVF success prediction confirms that emotional and financial preparation before starting treatment is one of the most important things couples can do to navigate this journey well.

[caption id="attachment_75193" align="aligncenter" width="500"]real-cost-of-ivf-1 The Real Cost of IVF: What Patients Are Paying in 2026 and How to Plan Financially[/caption]

23 Jul

Posted at 17:44h in Mental Health Research

Mental Health Notice: If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, please seek help immediately. Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7), text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or call 911 in an emergency.

Everyone experiences stress, sadness, or anxiety from time to time. Life's challenges can take an emotional toll, and many people are able to work through difficult periods with support from family and friends. However, when mental health symptoms begin affecting your daily life, relationships, or overall well-being, it may be time to seek professional help.

Recognizing the signs early can make a significant difference. If you're considering Mental Health Treatment in New Jersey, understanding when to reach out is the first step toward feeling better. For those wondering whether standard weekly therapy is enough or whether a higher level of care may be needed, this overview of when standard outpatient mental health care isn't enough provides helpful context. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, most people with mental health conditions see improvement with proper professional care — and early intervention consistently leads to better outcomes.

Time to Seek Professional Mental Health Treatment

23 Jul

Posted at 17:35h in Mental Health Research

Mental Health Notice: If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, please seek help immediately. Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7), text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or call 911 in an emergency.

Mental health challenges can affect people in many different ways. Some individuals struggle with anxiety or depression, while others may be coping with trauma, mood disorders, chronic stress, or life transitions. Because every person's situation is unique, there is no single approach that works for everyone.

Fortunately, modern mental health treatment offers a variety of evidence-based services that can be tailored to each individual's needs, goals, and circumstances. For an overview of the types of psychiatric medications sometimes used as part of these plans, see this resource on mental health medications and what patients should know. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, effective treatment for mental health conditions is available and most people do see improvement with proper care.

different_types_of_mental_health_treatment

23 Jul

Posted at 12:52h in Dental Research

Is fixing a broken tooth a medical decision or a cosmetic one? For most patients, it feels like it has to be one or the other — treat the problem or improve the smile. In restorative dentistry, that distinction mostly doesn't exist, since the same procedure that repairs a tooth's function is very often the exact procedure that also restores how it looks and feels day to day.

For anyone in New York weighing dental work, understanding the everyday changes this kind of treatment actually produces — and how a dentist achieves both outcomes through the same procedure — makes clear why patients so often walk away with more than they expected from a single visit. This intersection of function and appearance is also at the heart of advanced restorative work, as explored in this overview of how integrated restorative dentistry delivers permanent function and appearance in a single treatment plan.

[caption id="attachment_75180" align="aligncenter" width="500"]restoring-dental-health-and-confidence.jpg Photo by Gustavo Fring[/caption]

23 Jul

Posted at 12:08h in Fertility, OBGYNE

The exact IVF process in the exact same fertility centre in the same year can be portrayed as a "success rate" that varies considerably, and all versions would be correct in their own way. The number fluctuates based on what it means — either an established pregnancy or the birth of a baby — the calculation per embryo transfer or per cycle started; and whether it is calculated according to the age of the patient. It is extremely unlikely for any fertility centre to disclose which type they refer to when giving statistics on their website. This is the reason why two fertility centres that have the same results in practice may look entirely different online, and why the top number does not mean everything.

For anyone researching IVF Victoria, understanding how to read these figures before your first consultation makes a meaningful difference. Research on online fertility calculators and IVF success prediction confirms that age of the woman is by far the strongest predictor of live birth — a reminder that headline percentages without age breakdowns tell only part of the story.

[caption id="attachment_75175" align="aligncenter" width="500"]choosing-ivf-clinic-pexels Photo by Gustavo Fring[/caption]

22 Jul

Posted at 22:36h in Author Interviews, Breast Cancer, Cancer Research, Genetic Research

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Steven Quay, MD, PhD

Founder, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

Atossa Therapeutics

Publications discussed: The rise of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) in breast cancer therapy: a promising horizon and (Z)-Endoxifen as a Potential Modulator of Utrophin Pathways in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Mechanistic and Transcriptomic Perspective

[caption id="attachment_75169" align="alignleft" width="240"]Dr. Steven C. Quay Dr. Steven C. Quay[/caption]

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for these studies? What are the main findings of the reviews?

Dr. Quay: Breast cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosis and the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. Around 70% of these cases are estrogen receptor-positive (ER+), meaning the tumor cells use the body's natural estrogen as fuel to multiply and grow. While traditional endocrine therapies like tamoxifen have saved countless lives, patients frequently face severe side effects or eventually develop resistance to the treatment.

To bridge this gap, these studies show the promise of next-generation selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), specifically (Z)-endoxifen. The main findings indicate that this active-form drug delivers more consistent, well-tolerated exposure to keep pace with a patient's unique biology. We are looking at the whole picture — from cancer prevention in high-risk patients to shrinking tumors before cases worsen. Ultimately, this approach builds on tamoxifen's legacy and blocks estrogen signaling to provide patients with more effective therapy options. For context on risk factors in breast cancer prevention, see this overview of breast cancer risk and dense breast tissue.

22 Jul

Posted at 17:53h in Dental Research

Modern dentistry increasingly emphasizes preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible while restoring both function and appearance. Advances in dental materials and adhesive technologies have made minimally invasive treatments an important part of contemporary clinical practice. Among these, composite bonding has become a widely used restorative technique because it allows dentists to repair and enhance teeth while conserving healthy enamel. This patient-centered approach reflects a broader shift toward preventive and conservative dentistry, where long-term oral health is a primary objective.

The science behind conservative composite restorations shares principles with biomimetic dentistry more broadly — explored in this overview of the benefits of biomimetic dentistry and its emphasis on preserving natural tooth structure.

science-behind-tooth-bonding-1

22 Jul

Posted at 16:58h in Dermatology

Hair loss presents in patients of nearly every age and in both sexes. In my experience the degree of distress it produces frequently exceeds what the clinical severity alone would predict, and that discrepancy is worth recognising at the first consultation. Demand for non-surgical restoration has grown sharply in recent years. Surgery is costly and not everyone qualifies for it; many patients simply want something they can manage at home without a prescription. Red light therapy has become one of the most common of those options. It started as clinic equipment and is now sold for personal use, and it differs from most consumer treatments in one respect that carries clinical weight: it has actually been tested in controlled trials.

So the practical question patients raise is a direct one — does red light therapy work for hair loss, and if so, by how much. What follows sets out the treatment itself, the reasoning behind why it might work, what the evidence shows, who tends to respond, and how it sits next to the drugs most patients already know. A closer look at does red light therapy work for hair loss is available on our site.

red-light-therapy-hair-loss-1

22 Jul

Posted at 16:38h in Dental Research, Nutrition

According to the American Dental Association, root canal treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal and prevent reinfection while saving the natural tooth. If you experience increasing pain, swelling, fever, pus or drainage, or difficulty swallowing after a root canal, contact your dentist or go to an emergency room promptly. These may be signs of infection. Dental infections can spread rapidly and become serious. This article is for educational purposes only — always follow your treating dentist's specific post-procedure instructions.

Waking up after a root canal procedure in Livingston, New Jersey, to find that even simple chewing makes you uncomfortable can be worrying — many patients aren't sure which foods will help rather than hinder the healing process. The good news is that the healing process is significantly affected by what you eat, and the proper selection of foods can help you heal comfortably and easily.

A dentist in Livingston NJ recommends 12 foods after undergoing root canal treatment that include soft foods such as yogurt, vegetable puree, eggs, oatmeal, and soups. This guide explains exactly what foods promote quick healing, what to avoid, and how to safely progress back to a normal diet. For context on when root canals are recommended versus other interventions, see this overview of common reasons why a dentist may recommend tooth extraction instead.

[caption id="attachment_75155" align="aligncenter" width="500"]what-to-eat-after-root-canal.jpg Photo by Gustavo Fring:[/caption]

22 Jul

Posted at 13:59h in Author Interviews, Speech

Speech-language pathology is a career for people who want to help others express themselves, understand language, and swallow safely. It combines science, compassion, and practical problem-solving in ways that can change daily life. Rather than staying in theory, the field focuses on helping children and adults manage communication and swallowing challenges through assessment, therapy, and ongoing support. For guidance on what to look for when selecting a provider in this field, see this overview of how to find a quality speech pathologist.

[caption id="attachment_75151" align="aligncenter" width="500"]speech-pathology-pexels-communication-careers.png Source: Pexels[/caption]

22 Jul

Posted at 09:24h in Cancer Research

For many people with cancer, one of the hardest moments comes when a treatment that worked at first begins to fail. A tumor may shrink, symptoms may improve, and test results may look encouraging. Then, months or years later, the cancer starts growing again.

This does not always mean the treatment was ineffective from the beginning. More often, it killed most cancer cells but left behind a small group that could survive. Those cells continued to grow and eventually became the dominant population in the tumor. Understanding why these cells survive is a major focus of cancer research. For background on how CRISPR technology is being applied across medical research, see this overview of how CRISPR gene editing is opening new doors in disease research.

genes_behind_cancer_drug_resistance

21 Jul

Posted at 23:35h in Disability Research

Choosing a powered chair can feel overwhelming. There are dozens of features, plenty of jargon, and a lot riding on the decision. The goal, though, is simple: a chair that keeps you comfortable through a long day and helps you move through your world with more independence.

Make the choice easier by using a practical checklist: start with your body and seating, match the chair to your home and daily routes, then review batteries, travel, funding, and service support. For broader context on how mobility aids fit into rehabilitation and daily functioning, see this overview of how restoring functional mobility improves daily life.

right-powered-chair-respona

21 Jul

Posted at 19:12h in Electronic Records, Medical Billing

Proper medical coding ensures timely reimbursements, compliance, and financial sustainability. However, although healthcare is very structured, opportunities to bill for additional revenue are often missed because of limited CPT codes, missing documentation, and the continually evolving billing rules. With increasing detail in patient encounters and changes in coding rules, coding all services by hand is becoming increasingly difficult. Even when care is being provided, there can be revenue leakage due to missed procedures, lengthy service codes, billing of care coordination activities, and additional billing opportunities.

As the medical coding sector evolves to demand greater precision, uniformity, and efficiency, software for medical coding is becoming increasingly popular. AI is becoming an increasingly integral tool in finding coding opportunities that would likely be missed in vast amounts of clinical documentation, reconciling them to standards, and ensuring that full reimbursement is received. For context on how billing practices affect overall clinical operations, see this overview of how smart practices think about billing without losing focus on care.

[caption id="attachment_75136" align="aligncenter" width="500"]cpt-codes-you-are-missing Source: Freepik[/caption]

21 Jul

Posted at 18:29h in Accidents & Violence, Pediatrics

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Jay Doucet, MD

Chief, Division of Trauma, Surgical Critical Care, Burns, and Acute Care Surgery

Medical Director, Surgical Intensive Care Unit and Emergency Preparedness and Response

UC San Diego Health

[caption id="attachment_75129" align="alignleft" width="150"] Dr. Jay Doucet[/caption]

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Dr. Doucet: E-bikes have surged in popularity in recent years because they allow riders to travel farther and faster with less physical effort than traditional bicycles. While this growth has expanded transportation options for many people, researchers say it has also introduced new safety challenges. E-bikes are generally heavier and capable of higher speeds than conventional bicycles, factors that may contribute to more serious injuries when collisions occur. This study adds to a growing body of evidence explored previously on MedicalResearch.com in a related interview on how electric bikes are linked to a dramatic increase in injuries and hospitalizations.

[caption id="attachment_75130" align="aligncenter" width="500"]ebike accidents Pexels[/caption]

21 Jul

Posted at 11:34h in Mental Health Research, Pharmacology

Mental Health Notice: If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, please seek help immediately. Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7), text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or call 911 in an emergency. This article is for general educational purposes only and should not replace individualized medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing a medication.

Mental health treatment is a personal process. What works well for one individual may not be the right fit for another. This is especially true when psychiatric medications are part of a treatment plan. Medication can help reduce symptoms associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other mental health concerns. However, receiving a prescription is only the beginning. Ongoing monitoring and communication are important for determining whether the medication is working as intended.

Through regular appointments and thoughtful adjustments, medication management can help individuals receive care that remains responsive to their symptoms, experiences, and treatment goals. Understanding what mental health diagnoses involve is also part of this process — explored in this overview of what the process of diagnosing mental illness looks like.

medication_management_and_mental_health.png

20 Jul

Posted at 22:19h in Author Interviews, Infections

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Amesh A. Adalja, MD, FACP, FACEP, FIDSA

Spokesperson, Infectious Diseases Society of America

Senior Scholar, Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security

[caption id="attachment_75118" align="alignleft" width="200"]Amesh A. Adalja Dr. Adalja[/caption]

MedicalResearch.com: What type of organism is Cyclospora cayetanensis?

Dr. Adalja: It is a protozoan parasite.

MedicalResearch.com: Where is it found? What are the symptoms of infection?

Dr. Adalja: Cases occur worldwide, but it is endemic in the tropics and subtropics.

MedicalResearch.com: How is it spread? Why does it occur periodically? Is there more spread during warm weather?

Dr. Adalja: It is spread when a human ingests an infective oocyst of Cyclospora. Its seasonal nature varies from place to place, and in countries like the United States and Canada, the risk is primarily related to importation of contaminated food products. Certain soil conditions are more conducive to the oocysts than others.

20 Jul

Posted at 17:14h in Cancer Research, Technology

HyperPlan®, the hyperthermia treatment planning software developed by Dr. Sennewald Medizintechnik GmbH, has successfully completed the certification process under the Medical Device Regulation (MDR). This marks a significant milestone in modern, software-assisted hyperthermia treatment planning and confirms that the software innovation meets the essential safety and performance requirements for medical devices as defined by Regulation (EU) 2017/745. As the first certified treatment planning software for hyperthermia, HyperPlan® strengthens confidence among both patients and healthcare professionals while ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality.

According to the National Cancer Institute, hyperthermia is a type of treatment in which body tissue is exposed to high temperatures to damage and kill cancer cells or to make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation and certain anticancer drugs — a well-established principle that HyperPlan® is now helping to deliver with greater precision and traceability than ever before.

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20 Jul

Posted at 16:45h in Mental Health Research

Mental Health Notice: If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, thoughts of self-harm, or suicidal ideation, please seek help immediately. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (24/7), text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line, or call 911 in an emergency.

Ketamine Therapy Notice: IV ketamine infusion for mental health conditions is an off-label use of an FDA-approved anesthetic. It is not appropriate for all patients and carries risks including dissociation, elevated blood pressure, and potential for misuse. Ketamine therapy should only be considered under the supervision of a licensed physician following a thorough clinical evaluation. It is not a replacement for ongoing psychiatric care, therapy, or other evidence-based mental health treatment. Always consult your physician or mental health provider before pursuing any new treatment.

You've tried the antidepressants. You've sat through months of talk therapy. And the heaviness is still there — or the anxiety still tightens your chest before you even open your eyes in the morning. For many adults living with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or PTSD, this cycle feels less like a treatment plan and more like a holding pattern with no end in sight.

That path forward doesn't begin with a leap of faith. It begins with a conversation, a clinical assessment, and a physician-led decision about whether IV ketamine infusion is appropriate for your specific history and symptoms.

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20 Jul

Posted at 16:16h in CDC, Hospital Acquired, NEJM

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Nora Chea, M.D.

Medical Epidemiologist

Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion CDC's National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases

[caption id="attachment_75102" align="alignleft" width="200"]dr-nora-chea.jpeg Dr. Nora Chea[/caption]

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Dr. Chea: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a significant threat to the safety of patients in U.S. hospitals and cost billions of dollars annually. Preventing HAIs continues to be a top priority of CDC and other federal agencies. In 2023, CDC, in collaboration with 10 Emerging Infections Program (EIP) sites, conducted a point prevalence survey to assess changes in HAI prevalence compared with a similar survey conducted in 2015.

The 2023 survey included 13,653 patients across 218 hospitals in 10 states. Trained staff reviewed medical records using National Healthcare Safety Network definitions to identify HAIs.

20 Jul

Posted at 14:07h in Ophthalmology

Thinking about LASIK usually starts the same way: you're tired of glasses fogging up, contacts drying out, or just wanting to see clearly the moment you wake up. But before booking a consultation, it helps to have a realistic sense of whether you're likely to qualify in the first place, since not everyone is.

According to Harvard's Department of Ophthalmology, about 94 to 100% of patients with low-to-moderate nearsightedness achieve 20/40 vision or better after LASIK — a strong outcome rate reserved for patients who actually meet the standard criteria. Those outcomes depend on selecting the right patients through a comprehensive eye examination. That's one reason why choosing an experienced refractive surgeon is so important. Research published through MedicalResearch.com also found that patient satisfaction with LASIK significantly exceeded satisfaction with continued contact lens wear over a three-year follow-up period across 20 sites in the United States.

[caption id="attachment_75098" align="aligncenter" width="500"]candidate-lasix-surgery Photo by Maksim Goncharenok[/caption]

20 Jul

Posted at 13:51h in Accidents & Violence, Legal-Malpractice

A car accident can cause disabilities that last for months, years, or a lifetime, depending on the severity of the injury and how the body responds to treatment. Common long-term outcomes include brain injuries, spinal cord damage, chronic pain, and limb loss.

Recognizing the signs of car accident disability early can help a person get the right treatment before symptoms become permanent and harder to manage. Some injuries look mild at first but develop into lasting impairments weeks or months later. This guide covers the injuries most likely to cause lasting disability, from mobility loss to cognitive and emotional changes.

[caption id="attachment_75095" align="aligncenter" width="500"]disabilities_that_may_follow_a_car_accident Source[/caption]

20 Jul

Posted at 13:43h in Accidents & Violence, Legal-Malpractice

A fractured sternum is a serious injury that can occur after a car accident, particularly when the chest strikes a seat belt or steering wheel during the collision. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking prompt medical attention can help prevent complications and support a smoother recovery.

The force generated in a car crash can cause injuries that are not immediately obvious. While cuts and bruises may be visible, injuries to the chest often develop symptoms over the following hours or days. Knowing the symptoms of a fractured sternum can help you recognize when medical evaluation is necessary and reduce the risk of untreated complications. Research published in peer-reviewed literature confirms that traumatic sternal fractures occur in up to 8% of blunt chest trauma cases, with motor vehicle collisions accounting for the majority. For more on the causes, symptoms, and compensation considerations, see this overview of fractured sternum: causes, symptoms, and compensation.

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20 Jul

Posted at 13:32h in Accidents & Violence, Legal-Malpractice

Motorcycle crash injuries in Jacksonville can have lasting effects that reach far beyond the first hospital visit. They may lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, emotional stress, and ongoing medical care, making recovery a long-term challenge for many riders.

Because of how busy the highways, bridges, and riding conditions are in Jacksonville all year round, motorcycles share the road with heavy traffic. Riders are often injured in a few seconds of a serious crash, and that injury could take months or even years to treat. By recognizing the common injuries, it's possible to better understand why some individuals suffer physical and financial problems long after the accident, even if there appear to be no visible injuries. For a closer look at what brain injuries from motorcycle accidents involve medically, see this overview of understanding the symptoms of brain injuries after a motorcycle accident.

[caption id="attachment_75087" align="aligncenter" width="500"]long-term_effects_of_motorcycle_crash_injuries_ Image Source : unsplash[/caption]