Spinal Cord Injuries

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
Damage to the nerves in the spinal cord or the spinal cord itself due to sudden trauma.

Statistics:
According to the Miami Project, 78% of new diagnosed spinal cord injuries are males and 22% are females. Currently the amount of individuals diagnosed with a spinal cord injury in the U.S. is ranged from 250,000 to 300,000 persons (Statistics: The Miami Project, 2021)

(Oxford Medical Education, 2016)


This photo shows how the spinal cord is set up as well as what each area of the spinal cord has control of (Oxford Medical Education, 2016)

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

  •  Incomplete: messages are still able to travel to and from the brain to a certain degree.
  • Complete: messages are unable to travel to in and from the brain.
    (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2022)

Symptoms: 

  • Paralysis (Loss of movement)
  • Pressure/Pain in the neck, spine or head
  • Numbness starting in the hands or feet
  • Difficulties walking or breathing
(Incomplete SCI, 2022)

Types of Treatment


Physical Therapy


Occupational Therapy


Medication

Read stories of individuals living with this diagnosis below

Mike's Story
Bill's Story
Kyle's Story
Laeitia's Story

References

Bloomberg Originals. (2020, January 6). This accidental treatment is reversing paralysis. YouTube. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://youtu.be/KCpYa8DsUhA

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: Types, effects, & recovery. Flint Rehab. (2022, July 6). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/incomplete-spinal-cord-injury/

Lennon, A. (2022, May 20). Drug shows promise in treating spinal cord injury: Drug Discovery and Development. Labroots. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.labroots.com/trending/drug-discovery-and-development/22795/drug-promise-treating-spinal-cord-injury?gclid=CjwKCAiA0cyfBhBREiwAAtStHH93jJDpR_03KKDGLocrGK6tR-_OuQtjw2_1gQXsR1ajeJJ7Ghvw1hoCrwgQAvD_BwE

Medications for spinal cord injury: What doctors may prescribe. Flint Rehab. (2021, April 23). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/medications-for-spinal-cord-injury/

Northwestern University. (2021, November 11). Severe spinal cord injuries repaired with ‘dancing molecules’. YouTube. Retrieved February 3, 2023, from https://youtu.be/Q_xvCE904YU

Oxford Medical Education. (2016). Spinal trauma – anatomy. Oxford Medical Education. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://oxfordmedicaleducation.com/surgery/trauma-and-orthopaedics/spinal-trauma-anatomy/

Occupational therapy for Spinal Cord Injury. Flint Rehab. (2021, July 14). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.flintrehab.com/occupational-therapy-for-spinal-cord-injury/#:~:text=Occupational%20therapy%20applies%20both%20restorative,affected%20by%20spinal%20cord%20injury.

Statistics. The Miami Project. (2021, March 17). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.themiamiproject.org/resources/statistics/#:~:text=General%20Statistics,78%25%20of%20new%20SCI%20cases.

Therapeutic interventions for Spinal Cord Injury. Physiopedia. (2022). Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.physio-pedia.com/Therapeutic_Interventions_for_Spinal_Cord_Injury

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022). Spinal Cord Injury. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spinal-cord-injury

Diabetes

 

By: EpicTop10.com

Diabetes is an ongoing illness that impacts many millions of people around the world. People still don’t know much about or understand this disease, even though it affects a lot of people. Our goal with this blog is to give people a complete look at diabetes, including its different types, causes, symptoms, and ways to take care of it.

What is Diabetes?

High blood sugar, or diabetes, is a metabolic disease that makes people sick. This disease is caused by the body not being able to make enough insulin or use insulin properly. Diabetes comes in two main types:

A. Type 1 Diabetes: This kind happens when the immune system attacks and kills the cells in the pancreas that make insulin by mistake. People with Type 1 diabetes need insulin shots to keep their blood sugar levels in check.

B. Type 2 Diabetes: This type of diabetes happens more often and happens when the body stops responding to insulin or doesn’t make enough of it. Type 2 diabetes can be caused by bad habits like poor nutrition and lack of physical exercise, as well as by genes.

Causes and Risk Factors:

  • Genetics: A family history of diabetes can increase the risk of developing the condition.
  • Lifestyle: Unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, and obesity are significant contributors to Type 2 diabetes.
  • Age: The risk of diabetes increases with age, especially after the age of 45.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy may be at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Symptoms:

  • Frequent urination
  • More thirst 
  • Loss of weight that can’t be explained
  • Tiredness 
  • Trouble seeing
  • Wounds that take a long time to heal

Diagnosis:

  •  Fasting Blood Sugar Test
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) (blood test used to find out how well the body can handle more sugar)
  • Hemoglobin A1c Test (is a simple blood test that finds out what your average blood sugar levels have been for the last three months).

Management:

  • Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial in managing diabetes.
  • Medications: Depending on the type of diabetes, medications such as insulin, oral medications, or other injectables may be prescribed.
  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential for effective diabetes management.
  • Education and Support: Diabetes education programs and support groups can help individuals manage their condition more effectively.

Complications:

Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can lead to various complications, including cardiovascular disease (heart disease and stroke), kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye problems.

Prevention:

  • Adopting a healthy lifestyle
  • Regular exercise
  • Maintaining a balanced diet
  • Regular check-ups and screenings

Conclusion:

Understanding diabetes is crucial for everyone, whether you’re personally affected or supporting someone who is. By promoting awareness, adopting healthy habits, and seeking early diagnosis and treatment, we can collectively work towards managing and preventing diabetes for a healthier future. If you have concerns about diabetes, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

References

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, April 24). What is Diabetes?. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/diabetes.html
  • Diabetes – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic. (2023, May 3). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371444
  • Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023a, March 14). Type 2 diabetes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351199
  • National Library of Medicine . (2020b, October 22). Glucose tolerance tests: What exactly do they involve? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279331/

Blog Post – Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s: A Guide to Misinformation in the Media.

By: Flower’s.Lover

Alzheimer’s disease can be misunderstood and misrepresented not only in articles but also in TV shows, movies, newspapers, and even news segments. In this post, I am going to focus on a few media clips that have misrepresented Alzheimer’s/dementia. Throughout the years, there have been so many stories about this disease that have been completely or even partly false, and this post is to guide those who want to know more about some of the basics of this cognitive disease.

Let’s start with some media clips/newspaper articles that I have found. YouTube was a resource that I investigated to find some of the media that has some false information as well as some misleading information. I also found a movie that completely misrepresented how Alzheimer’s can look and can lead individuals to act. Even a newspaper published an article that advertised a drug that they said would help with reversing memory loss when it was never tested to be true.

An example of signs and symptoms being misinterpreted was found in a YouTube video (I will link the video below). This video is from a news clip sharing a story about a man who was misdiagnosed with Alzheimer’s at a young age when he sought help from a doctor. He was told he had Alzheimer’s when he was just having trouble sleeping. This video showed me that there are instances where you need a second opinion and to trust your instincts when you hear news that does not feel right, but also knowing that searching symptoms and diagnoses on the internet can be worse when you are looking for answers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Klf01zj9Sso 

How do I know if I have Alzheimer’s symptoms?

Signs and symptoms can be easily mistaken or seen as Alzheimer’s symptoms when they are also commonly associated with old age. Knowing the difference between old age and having dementia/Alzheimer’s symptoms can be easily determined. The most important way to know the difference would be to see your primary physician who can refer you to a neurologist if they have further concerns.

Common signs and symptoms to look out for:

  • Memory loss.
  • Getting lost frequently.
  • Mood changes.
  • Difficulty with daily tasks.
  • Losing track of time.
  • Easily agitated.
  • Poor judgment and problem-solving skills.
  • Forgetting loved ones.

 

Can Movies Be Deceiving?

There are also instances where movies can steer your idea of Alzheimer’s disease in the wrong direction. In my search to find media that was misrepresenting Alzheimer’s, I came across a movie that could be harmful, because it gave the wrong impression and idea of this disease. From the symptoms listed above, the woman in this movie had none. It seemed to me that the movie just said, “Let’s say she has Alzheimer’s”, but then had her act cognitively “normal”.

The wrong image of how something is can be discouraging and this movie made me feel that way because I know that it was not giving the message that they were trying to. They wanted to show a cute movie about how living with Alzheimer’s can be as an individual or caregiver but instead, they barely scratched the surface. For instance, the woman went behind her husband’s back to check herself into a long-term care facility because she was deteriorating, but if that were the case, she would not have the capability to make that decision on her own.

The movie is called “Away from Her.”   https://www.amazon.com/Away-Her-Gordon-Pinsent/dp/B000WU7R5Y.

 

False Advertising…

Newspapers are published so that readers can find things that can help them, or so I thought. As I mentioned earlier in this post, I had found a newspaper article that had an advertisement for a drug that would reverse any memory loss that had occurred. When I looked further into the article, I found other articles about this drug that said it was never tested which meant that this drug was not legitimate. After seeing this, I thought how awful it is that so many people look at newspaper ads and do not expect them to be misleading.

When you are looking in the media for answers, you come across various information (good and bad) and it can be overwhelming. Before you listen to the media and the internet, it is better to talk to a professional before proceeding with any medication or personal arrangement. So, when looking at media here is what you need to check:

  1. Who wrote it and who reviewed it?
  2. What are their qualifications?
  3. Are they sponsored by medical organizations or by federal government agencies?

 

Newspaper article- The Denver Post “New Pill Reverses Memory Loss in an Amazing Way”

 

References:

Photo credit: <a href=”https://visualhunt.co/a7/c14cc23d”>Thomas Cizauskas</a> on <a href=”https://visualhunt.com/re10/e9e80c57″>VisualHunt.com</a>

CBS Mornings. (2017, February 9). Ohio clinic accused of false Alzheimer’s diagnosis [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Klf01zj9Sso

Daily Food Consumption and Cancer

Daily Food Consumption and Cancer

A table full of delicious food (Free Pic, 2021)

By: TedroyC, COTA

The act of sharing a meal is a time-honored custom that is handed down through the ages. But do you know that your food may be linked to Cancer? I love food, and I am sure most of you do too! There’s so much misinformation out there about certain foods and their supposed links to Cancer.

It is not very clear to separate fact from fiction. It’s frustrating how false information can quickly spread and make us more fearful. That fear stops us from thoroughly enjoying these fantastic and delicious foods. Join me as I investigate the possible link between the foods we eat daily and their possible link to Cancer.

Myth: Drinking ensure is linked to Cancer

Fact: Ensure is a high protein and high sugar drink. Consuming sugary drinks is not always the best option, but supplements like Ensure have not been linked to cancer. So you can enjoy them without any concerns! For people who are malnourished, not getting the right supplements like Ensure can be fatal.

Myth: Eating your favorite cereals is linked to Cancer

Fact: Cereals are tasty but must be kept on a shelf for a long by adding preservatives to them. BHT is a preservative added to cereal to sustain its shelf life. It is safe for human consumption with no links to cancer. It is quickly processed and eliminated from the body as waste materials. There are no lingering unpleasant effects, so enjoy foods containing this additive!

Myth: Eating tasty Rotisserie Chicken is linked to Cancer

Fact: Rotisserie Chicken contains a food additive (carrageenan), which stabilizes, thickens and gels food. This additive is safe for consumption and has no unpleasant effects on the stomach. There are no links between this additive and the growth of cancer cells.  

We must remember that food and nutrients are not the only causes of Cancer. A healthy diet and lifestyle can reduce our cancer risk. We can control our health and reduce cancer risk by making simple, informed food choices. Let’s work together to stay healthy and happy!

References

European Food Safety Authority. (2012, March 7). Scientific Opinion on re-evaluating butylated hydroxytoluene BHT (E 321) as a food additive. Retrieved from https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/2588#:~:text=The%20Panel%20concluded%20that%20BHT,any%20carcinogenicity%20would%20be%20thresholded.

Makarem, N., Bandera, E. V., Nicholson, J., & Parekh, N. (2018). Consumption of sugars, sugary foods, and beverages concerning cancer risk: A Systematic review of longitudinal studies. Annual Review of Nutrition, 38(1), 17–39. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-nutr-082117-051805

McKim, J. M., Willoughby, J. A., Sr, Blakemore, W. R., & Weiner, M. L. (2019). Clarifying the confusion between poligeenan, degraded carrageenan, and carrageenan: A review of the chemistry, nomenclature, and in vivo toxicology by the oral route. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 59(19), 3054–3073. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2018.1481822