Ophthalmology / 17.10.2024

More than 150 million Americans wear corrective spectacles and lenses. This eyewear helps Americans compensate for refractive errors. The most common of them are nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. When do errors arise? They happen when an eye does not refract the light to concentrate on the retina. This occurs because of the cornea’s form. If you wear lenses or glasses, understanding LASIK vs SMILE surgery is for you. 

LASIK Eye Surgery

About

Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis is what stands behind LASIK. In the USA alone, this is the top sought-after surgical intervention. The procedure is 100% bladeless and involves a laser beam for cornea reshaping.    The procedure has been FDA-approved for 20 years. Since then, it has revolutionized the domain. There is more than one type of LASIK surgery. (more…)
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, JAMA, OBGYNE, Pediatrics / 16.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Eleni G. Jaswa, MD, MSc Assistant Professor, Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Science UCSF MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Some infections during pregnancy have been associated with abnormal neurodevelopment in children. This is likely due to the infection itself, or the maternal immune system response to infection. We sought to determine whether maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, a now common occurrence, was associated with changes in children's neurodevelopment out to 24-months-old, compared to control children not exposed to maternal COVID-19 in utero. (more…)
Genetic Research / 16.10.2024

In medical school, students learn the significant facts about rare diseases, including their prognosis, treatment options, and predisposing factors. However, it's entirely different when a doctors diagnoses a patient with a rare disease and have to care for them. Since the providers wants to get all the details and provide the best care possible despite the limited information available, the task can prove challenging. This article shows steps to help ensure that patients get the quality of care they need. Consider Investigational Therapies Since there are not many drugs out there proven to be effective for treating rare diseases, investigational therapies might be worth trying for your patient.  Such treatments are worth considering when patients are experiencing severe side effects from using the conventional therapies and when the early study results of the investigational drugs are promising. Before proceeding with it  consider what the investigational drug is being studied for, the accessibility to clinical trial sites, and how much is already known about such therapies. For your patient's safety  the potential risks and the scientific evidence available must be examined and existing treatments exhausted. Determine if the patient will meet the inclusion criteria for participation in the study, such as the type or stage of their disease, age group, medical history, and current health status. As the physician, it is the responsibility to request such drugs. However, expanded access programs for investigational drugs are sometimes hard to navigate. If there is  difficulty getting patients into such clinical trials, you might want to consider using an Early Access Care program. Such programs connect patients to needed investigational products and streamline the request processes. (more…)
Aging, Nursing, Nursing Homes / 16.10.2024

Seniors typically need greater help as they age; the difference is primarily in having the correct person at their side. Selecting the appropriate aged care nurse can help guarantee comfort, safety, and good quality of life whether you are thinking about live-in care for seniors. These useful pointers should assist in directing your decision-making process for the best live in care for seniors.
  • Experience
Different nurses have different experiences. While some would concentrate on helping patients recovering from surgery, others may be more suited for dementia care. Look for a caregiver who specifically knows about the situation of your loved one when you are choosing someone. If the nurses are already aware of the difficulties they can encounter while looking after seniors on a live-in basis, it can make a big difference.

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Chiropractic / 15.10.2024

Table of Contents
    • Introduction to Chiropractic Care
    • The Science Behind Chiropractic Techniques
    • Commonly Addressed Ailments
    • Benefits of Regular Chiropractic Visits
    • Debunking Common Myths
    • Holistic Health and Chiropractic Care
    • Choosing the Right Chiropractor
    • Future Trends in Chiropractic Care
  Introduction to Chiropractic Care Chiropractic care offers a holistic healthcare approach beyond just adjusting the spine. It represents a holistic method that considers the entire body, promoting better overall health. By focusing on the musculoskeletal system, chiropractors help to align the body's structure, which is crucial for maintaining balance and function. Many patients experiencing chronic discomfort have turned to the expertise shared by New Jersey chiropractor services, discovering significant improvements in mobility and pain alleviation. These benefits highlight chiropractic care's potential for enhancing quality of life in non-invasive ways. Furthermore, the popularity of chiropractic care reflects a broader trend towards exploring alternative medicine options. More people seek healthcare solutions that prevent problems from within, emphasizing a proactive approach rather than merely treating symptoms. Chiropractic care contributes to a greater understanding of how maintaining bodily alignment can impact overall wellness. (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Cost of Health Care, Medicare, UCLA / 15.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Frank F. Zhou  |  he/him MD Candidate, Class of 2025 David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What is Lecanemab used for?  How is it given to patients? Response: Lecanemab is a new infusion therapy for Alzheimer's disease. Its dosing is based on each patient's body weight (10 mg/kg every two weeks), but the drug is only available in 500 mg and 200 mg single-use vials, meaning that any leftover drug in vials must be thrown away. Given that lecanemab is expected to cost Medicare billions of dollars each year, we hypothesized that discarded drug could result in significant wasteful spending. (more…)
Health Care Systems, Technology / 15.10.2024

  With medical needs escalating and technology advancing at an incredible pace, the speed of patient care is about to become much faster and more effective. Healthcare organizations are under pressure to do more with less. Businesses are finally able to leave their tech logjam behind when they plug into lean IT project services. Suddenly, the thorny vines of procedure fall away, and genuine innovation gets a second wind. Low costs don't mean low-quality care.. What if healthcare operations could run like a well-oiled machine? For that to happen, they need to corral their IT projects, but that's a tall order given the specific challenges they face.

Streamlining Operations Through Digital Transformation

Hospitals and clinics are constantly faced with the challenge of reducing costs without sacrificing the level of care their patients receive. Efficient IT project services facilitate the implementation of digital tools and technologies that improve operational workflows and processes. One area where IT project services provide critical support is electronic health record (EHR) integration. Healthcare goes high-tech when EHR systems are properly set up. It's like having a bird’s-eye view of a patient's entire journey, allowing doctors to spot connections and make swift, informed decisions. Under the watchful eye of regulatory authorities like HIPAA, IT project managers expertly integrate these systems, implementing checks and balances to prevent malfunctions and mishaps. When automation technologies are properly integrated, they morph administrative tasks into background noise, allowing healthcare professionals to redirect their attention to the ones who need it most: their patients. Think of automation as a behind-the-scenes team player. By handing over the routine tasks, healthcare pros can refocus on what matters most: providing top-notch care. (more…)
Complementary Medicine / 14.10.2024

  In our fast-paced world, health frequently takes a backseat to the demands of work, family, and social commitments. Yet, dedicating time and energy to our well-being is crucial for living a rewarding life. This blog will delve into various health solutions that can effortlessly blend into your daily activities, enabling you to attain a balanced and vibrant lifestyle.

The Foundation of Personal Health Awareness

Everyone has unique health needs, making it vital to tailor your approach accordingly. Begin by assessing the following areas:
  • Nutritional needs: What types of foods fuel your body and mind?
  • Fitness levels: Are you incorporating movement into your day?
  • Mental state: How do you handle stress and maintain emotional well-being?
  • Preventative care: Are you proactive about your health screenings and check-ups?
By recognizing these factors, you can develop a personalized health strategy that aligns with your lifestyle. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Stress / 14.10.2024

Addiction recovery is a challenging journey that often comes with its own set of stressors. Managing stress effectively is crucial for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse. Stress can trigger cravings and lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, potentially derailing the progress made in recovery. However, by implementing proven stress management techniques, individuals in recovery can build resilience and develop healthier ways to cope with life's challenges. This article presents seven practical tips to help those in addiction recovery effectively manage stress, promoting long-term success in their sobriety journey. By incorporating these strategies into daily life, individuals can create a strong foundation for lasting recovery and improved overall well-being. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation In managing stress during addiction recovery, the practice of mindfulness and meditation is considered beneficial. Mindfulness encourages staying present in the moment, which can reduce stress by limiting focus on past substance use or concerns about the future. Engaging in meditation for as little as 20 minutes per day has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress and anxiety. These practices enhance self-awareness, aiding individuals in recognizing and regulating their emotions, an important aspect of addiction recovery. Regular mindfulness practice can also decrease the intensity of cravings, offering healthier coping mechanisms. Incorporating mindfulness into daily routines may improve overall well-being and build resilience against stressors that could lead to relapse. An example of a drug rehab that incorporates mindfulness and meditation techniques into their treatment programs is New Chapter Faith Recovery, which provides addiction treatment in New Jersey. They recognize that these practices enhance self-awareness, aiding individuals in recognizing and regulating their emotions, which is crucial in addiction recovery. (more…)
Aging, Sleep Disorders / 14.10.2024

Photo by: RDNE Stock project

As people age, sleep problems often become more common. Seniors frequently report issues such as insomnia, light sleeping, or waking up multiple times throughout the night. This lack of quality sleep can affect their overall well-being, leading to increased anxiety, fatigue, and decreased cognitive function.   Fortunately, relaxation techniques and the use of comfort tools like a quilted blanket can help combat anxiety and promote better sleep in seniors.   This article explores the impact of anxiety on senior sleep, the benefits of using a quilted blanket, and various relaxation techniques that seniors can adopt to achieve more restful nights. (more…)
Surgical Research, Weight Research / 14.10.2024

  Maintaining a healthy weight is important at any age, but it becomes even more crucial as we grow older. For seniors, managing weight can help improve overall well-being, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and increase mobility and independence.   However, weight loss strategies that might work for younger people aren’t always appropriate for older adults. Seniors need safe, effective methods tailored to their unique physical, mental, and nutritional needs.   This article will explore some safe and effective weight loss strategies for seniors, focusing on ways to stay fit and healthy while maintaining energy and strength. (more…)
Aging, Home Care / 14.10.2024

As people age, maintaining independence becomes one of the most important goals for seniors and their families. The ability to live comfortably in their own homes while receiving the necessary support is a crucial aspect of aging with dignity. Personal care assistants (PCAs) play a vital role in helping elderly individuals maintain their independence, ensuring they receive the right balance of assistance and freedom. In this article, we will explore why personal care assistants are so important for elderly independence, how they contribute to a better quality of life, and why more families are turning to them for support.

1. The Balance of Support and Freedom

One of the greatest challenges that seniors face as they age is finding the right balance between needing help and maintaining their independence. Many elderly individuals can manage their daily activities but require some assistance with specific tasks. This is where personal care assistants come in. They provide help with daily tasks without taking away a senior’s sense of autonomy. Personal care assistant duties include:
  1. Bathing and grooming 
    2.  
  2. Dressing 
    3.  
  3. Medication management
    4.  
  4. Light housekeeping
    5.  
  5. Meal preparation
    6.  
  6. Mobility assistance
    7.  
These tasks can be difficult for seniors to manage alone, yet they are essential for their health and well-being. By helping with these activities, personal care assistants allow seniors to focus on what they can do independently, which helps preserve their self-esteem and confidence. (more…)
Emergency Care / 11.10.2024

You'll unlikely need medical attention when you get a small paper cut or bruise, but exceptions can occur even with minor injuries. Sometimes, cuts require stitches or professional cleaning. Germs or bacteria can also enter a seemingly small cut, leading to a more extensive infection. It can be difficult to tell at times when to seek professional medical care when you get hurt. There are some telltale signs from your body indicate whether you should head to the hospital or urgent care. This list is not all-inclusive, but a guide to some of the more common injuries. Remember if you are unsure about the seriousness of an injury, it is better to seek medical care than wait.

Prolonged Bleeding

When you receive a cut or scrape, bleeding is normal. After about ten minutes, most of the bleeding should stop, though some small blood trickles can continue for up to an hour. After this time frame, additional bleeding should cause concern, especially if the bleeding is excessive, even after applying pressure for at least twenty minutes. If there is any debris in the cut, this can make bleeding worse; if you can’t remove it yourself, you’ll also need medical attention. (more…)
Author Interviews, JAMA, Pharmaceutical Companies / 11.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

David-Dan Nguyen MDCM MPH Doctoral Student Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation and Resident Physician Division of Urology University of Toronto

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Peer reviewers are crucial to the academic publishing process. While there’s been significant scrutiny of potential conflicts of interest among authors and editors of major journals, the potential for conflicts of interest among peer reviewers has been relatively unexplored. As such, our study aimed to quantify and characterize industry payments made to peer reviewers of top medical journals—The BMJ, JAMA, The Lancet, and The New England Journal of Medicine—to better understand the extent of these financial relationships.  (more…)
Fertility, OBGYNE / 11.10.2024

Women are looking to freeze their eggs, which is an option that is gaining popularity and provides fertility preservation for a level of control over family planning. Medical advances have made the procedure more reliable, and it allows women to put off having children without diminishing their chances of being able to conceive using their eggs later on. In this post, let’s get into why egg freezing is a powerful and how it can potentially give women more options when it comes to the capacity of reproduction. Better Chances of Getting Pregnant The quality and number of eggs decline with age, which makes getting pregnant more challenging. Freezing eggs can up their odds, as long as they do it at a younger age. Because generally speaking, lower-quality eggs do not respond as well to fertility treatments. (more…)
Education, Public Health / 10.10.2024

For professionals committed to the well-being of populations, a Master of Science in Community Health offers an academic path that empowers them to effect significant public health change. Such a degree combines a broad curriculum with a focus on both theory and practical applications in the real world. Graduates emerge prepared to tackle contemporary health challenges, contribute to policy development, and lead community-based health initiatives. Whether you're advancing your career or pivoting to a new sector within public health, this degree could open many doors. Below, we’ll explore the multifaceted advantages of obtaining this advanced degree.

The Financial and Personal Growth Advantages of an Advanced Degree in Community Health

masters-in-community-health - 1   A Master of Science in Community Health is not only an investment in career potential but also in one's financial future. On average, advanced degree holders tend to earn higher salaries over the course of their careers. Additionally, the versatility of the degree often affords professionals a degree of job security and greater bargaining power when negotiating for positions and salaries. Completing a master's program also requires substantial dedication and personal discipline, traits that benefit professionals in any field. The rigors of graduate study foster time management and problem-solving skills that aid in managing complex projects and teams effectively. For those interested in pursuing such a degree, programs like the one found at online.uc.edu/masters-programs/ms-community-health-and-prevention-science offer flexible options for working professionals. These online programs allow students to balance their academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments, making it an accessible path to an impactful career. (more…)
Medical Equipment, Technology / 10.10.2024

Oxygen tank regulators are very crucial in allowing the patient to obtain the quantity of oxygen supply that he or she needs with extreme accuracy. Getting an appropriate regulator oxygen tank is quite important, both in terms of safety and efficiency, since different applications have different specifications. This guide shall help understand the key considerations for selection when the oxygen tank regulator is to be used in a medical setting. (more…)
Orthopedics, Surgical Research / 10.10.2024

Scoliosis is a medical condition where the spine curves sideways, and it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. In severe cases, surgery is usually recommended to avoid health complications further down the road. Fortunately, advancements in scoliosis surgery mean minimally invasive techniques are on the rise. In this article, we’ll explore these innovative methods and how they’re transforming scoliosis care. 

Understanding Minimally Invasive Scoliosis Surgery 

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for scoliosis marks a shift from traditional open surgery to methods that involve smaller incisions and less disruption to the body’s tissue. Surgeons use specialized tools and technology to perform precision surgery with less physical impact, leading to faster recovery and less post-surgery discomfort.  (more…)
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Heart Disease / 10.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Stanley Hazen, MD, PhD Chair, Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences Lerner Research Institute CoSection head, Preventive Cardiology & Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute Cleveland Clinic MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response:  One of the unique features of COVID is that in some subjects, there unfortunately appear to be long term adverse effects that can occur following resolution of the acute infection.  These studies add to the growing body of data showing that COVID-19 infection can enhance risk for experiencing adverse cardiac events (heart attack, stroke, and death) over time. (more…)
Exercise - Fitness, Steroids / 10.10.2024

 

Breaking Free from Steroid Addiction: 6 Things to Keep in Mind

Steroid addiction is a real challenge, especially in the fitness world, where the pressure to excel can be intense. It's not only about the physical dependency. It's also about the mental battle to let go of something you may think is essential for success. But here's the thing: breaking free from steroid addiction is crucial for your long-term health and well-being. Whether you're a gym enthusiast, a professional athlete, or someone who started using steroids as supplements to your workouts, it's important to recognize the need to step back and choose a healthier path. This article aims to guide you through six key things to remember as you embark on this journey of recovery and rediscovery.

1.   Understanding Steroid Addiction

Steroid addiction, often unnoticed in the beginning, can gradually become a significant problem for those striving for physical perfection or performance enhancement. Understanding this addiction is the first step towards overcoming it.

What Is Steroid Addiction?

Steroid addiction, as Little Creek Recovery elucidates, occurs when individuals become dependent on anabolic steroids, substances commonly used to enhance muscle growth and athletic performance. Initially, these steroids might be seen as a quick way to bulk up, but over time, the body starts craving them, leading to dependency. (more…)
Exercise - Fitness / 10.10.2024

In the high-stakes arena of professional sports, athletes are always on the hunt for that extra edge—the secret sauce that will catapult them ahead of the competition. Traditional training and standard medical practices are important, sure, but they're just pieces of a much larger puzzle. Enter functional sports medicine, a game-changing approach that's turning the athletic world on its head. With the expertise of functional medicine doctors, athletes from sprinters to swimmers are tapping into new levels of performance by understanding their bodies like never before.

Decoding Functional Sports Medicine

So, what exactly is functional sports medicine? Think of it as the ultimate personalized health strategy. It's an innovative blend of functional medicine principles and cutting-edge sports science. Unlike conventional methods that often play whack-a-mole with symptoms, this approach digs deep to unearth the root causes of health issues that could be holding an athlete back. It sees the body as an interconnected system. Here's what it takes into account:
  • Genetic Blueprints: Your DNA can offer clues about how you respond to training and nutrition.
  • Nutritional Landscape: Are you getting the right fuel? Micronutrient deficiencies can be performance kryptonite.
  • Hormonal Harmony: Hormones regulate everything from energy levels to muscle growth.
  • Gut Feelings: A healthy gut means better nutrient absorption and immunity.
  • Mind Matters: Mental and emotional well-being are just as critical as physical health.
By zeroing in on these areas, functional sports medicine aims to supercharge overall health, leading to enhanced performance, fewer injuries, and quicker recoveries. It's like having a custom roadmap to athletic excellence. (more…)
PT-Rehabilitation / 10.10.2024

  Adopting an active lifestyle after limb loss is a testament to human resilience and the power of adaptation. While the initial challenges may seem daunting, embracing an active lifestyle is not only possible but also incredibly beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.   This article serves as a guide and source of inspiration for individuals navigating the path to an active life with a prosthesis. We'll delve into various tips, strategies, and even touch upon resources like "prosthetic companies near me" that can empower you to overcome obstacles, set achievable goals, and rediscover the joy of movement. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or simply looking to incorporate more physical activity into your daily routine, this article will provide you with valuable insights and motivation to embrace an active lifestyle. (more…)
Cannabis, Pain Research / 09.10.2024

As awareness grows regarding the therapeutic properties of cannabis, many are turning to cannabis edibles as an option for pain management. Edibles provide a discreet, long-lasting, and controlled way to consume cannabis without the need for smoking or vaping, for those seeking relief from chronic pain. This article explores the benefits of cannabis edibles, how they work in pain management, and how you can find the right product for your needs.

Why Cannabis Edibles Are Effective for Pain Management

Cannabis contains compounds known as cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate various physiological functions, including pain perception. The two primary cannabinoids in cannabis are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), both of which play a role in pain relief. (more…)
Electronic Records, Technology / 09.10.2024

Hospitals, health care systems, doctors' office, medical labs and facilities are under increasing threat from cybercriminals.  These remote, often foreign agents hijack critical medical operating systems and records, holding these important systems operationally hostage until a ransom is paid. The ransom may be paid in cryptocurrency and kept secret to avoid bad publicity.  Therefore, medical systems must be on the forefront of cybersecurity, with advance phishing detection, staff education, and strict firewalls.  Learn more about the use of firewalls in protecting valuable health care systems and medical information below.

Key Takeaways:

  • Firewalls are crucial for network security and differentiate between safe and unsafe traffic.
  • Various firewalls, such as hardware and software firewalls, serve different functions.
  • Implementing a firewall is essential for protecting sensitive information and maintaining data integrity.

What is a Firewall?

In the realm of cybersecurity, understanding the role of a firewall is incredibly important. A firewall acts as a barrier between your network and possible threats from external sources. Its purpose is to supervise and manage network traffic, both incoming and outgoing, according to established security regulations. Consider it as a guardian that allows only approved traffic to move ahead. In medieval times, castles utilized moats and drawbridges as barriers to safeguard valuable assets from invaders, a practice that is not novel. Likewise, firewalls play a vital role in protecting against cyber threats in today's digital era. (more…)
Lifestyle & Health / 09.10.2024

Maintaining your health is all about taking proactive steps to avoid problems before they start. Whether it's preventing an infection or protecting yourself from pests, being prepared makes a world of difference. In this blog post, we’ll dive into 10 essential health tips that everyone should know. From locating a convenient strep test near me to tips on getting rid of mosquitoes, these practical pointers will help you stay on top of your health and wellness.

Get Regular Screenings

Regular health screenings are crucial for early detection of illnesses. It's important to stay ahead of potential issues, from routine blood tests to more specific exams like cholesterol checks or a simple strep test. A strep throat infection, for example, is highly contagious and can escalate if not treated quickly. Fortunately, Googling strep tests near me is now easier than ever, with most urgent care centers and clinics offering fast and accurate testing. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen—early detection can save you from a lot of discomfort. (more…)
Technology / 08.10.2024

The Fax Machine may seem 'retired' to many but in medical practices, it still plays an integral function. Fax machines are used daily to send and receive lab reports, request insurance approvals, billing information and numerous other necessary communications. Faxing technology has changed however, and is more often 'cloud-based'  instead of a desk-based machine.  Learn about this evolving technology in this article. Fax machines have long been a fixture in business, synonymous with secure and reliable communication. Traditional faxing involves transmitting scans of documents over telephone lines, a technology that has remained remarkably static over decades. Yet, as digital transformations sweep across industries, even the steadfast fax machine is undergoing a radical change. Cloud-based fax infrastructure is revolutionizing how businesses think about and use faxing in daily operations. Keep reading to understand how these advancements put a modern twist on a classic form of communication. (more…)