The Influenza Vaccine (“Flu Shot”)
Every spring, some of the greatest minds in medicine match wits with one of the craftiest viruses on earth – influenza. By examining statistics and patterns of disease from the previous year, scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) and experts around the world try to […]
GERD Lifestyle Modifications and Treatment
Eating Habits: Eat small and frequent meals. Do not over fill your stomach with a large meal. Avoid any foods that seem to aggravate your symptoms, especially chocolate, spearmint, peppermint, tomato and citrus fruits and juices, tea, the cola’s and spicy, acidic, or fatty foods. Limit coffee or other caffeine-containing beverages to two or three […]
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
What is it and what are its risks? Gastroesophageal reflux disease (also called GERD) is the medical term for chronic heartburn. GERD occurs when a small valve (the lower esophageal sphincter) between the stomach and esophagus leaks, causing digestive fluids, bile and stomach acid to ‘back up” from the stomach into the esophagus. As many […]
The 1999-2000 Flu Vaccine Recommendations
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) strongly recommends vaccination for people who are at a higher risk of complications from a bout with the flu. These groups include: People 65 years or older Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities Adults and children who have asthma, or chronic lung or cardiovascular disorders Adults […]
Influenza
In my medical practice, it’s common for people to refer to almost any respiratory illness as a “flu bug”. Most of the time, what they really have is a viral upper respiratory infection (a “cold”). Infection with the real influenza virus is a much worse and even potentially serious infection that ranks as the top predator in […]
Selenium
Selenium, an antioxidant mineral, which scientists previously feared due to its potential toxicity, is the last of 40 nutrients to be shown to be essential for human health. The latest study indicates that it may actually help prevent both heart disease and cancer, the two leading causes of death in the Western world. The most […]
Horse Chestnut Seed Extract for Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) describes persistent incompetence of the deep and perforating veins in the lower extremities. Swelling, darkening of the skin, and ulcerations can accompany leg pain, tiredness, and itching. CVI prevalence ranges from 10-15% in men and 20-25% in women. Traditional treatment includes external compression (support stockings) and for some, vascular surgery (venous […]
Gallup Survey Shows Americans On High-Protein, Low-Carbohydrate Fad Diets Are Cutting Out Healthy Foods
Fad diets and bad nutritional advice are spurring Americans to cut healthy foods such as rice, pasta, bread and cereals from their daily consumption, according to a new Gallup Organization survey. The survey of 1,000 U.S. households found that 32 percent of dieters completely eliminated entire food groups when trying to lose weight, an action […]
Triglycerides
What are triglycerides? Triglyceride is the main type of fat transported by your body. The fat gets its name from its chemical structure. Triglycerides are a normal component in your bloodstream. After you eat, your body digests the fats in your food and releases triglycerides into your bloodstream. They are transported throughout your body to […]
Feverfew for Prevention of Migraine
Feverfew is another alternative to the traditional prescription drugs to prevent migraines. Botany A common garden flower (Tanacetum parthenium) sometimes called a “summer daisy,” feverfew has been used as a medicinal plant since medicine began and is one of the most interesting and potentially valuable of herbs. It’s been used to treat headaches, menstrual irregularity, […]