This blog is to help parents understand the importance of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and how it could affect their children.
Have you ever heard of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, otherwise known as CTE? How does this affect our children? Reports say that CTE is due to concussions and/or sub concussive hits to the head. Most children who would get a concussion may be from physically active sport they are participating in. The most current conversation now about CTE, is related to America’s all time favorite game of football! But it is not just football that can cause these hits.
So what is a concussion? It is a hit to the head from either another person, a ground surface or an object. A sub concussive hit is where the head is hit, but not hard enough to diagnose a concussion. Both of these contribute to CTE.
Dr. Bennet Omalu, the physician whom some say he re-discovered this disease has continued to provide more research on the topic of CTE. Some research supports that the disease was originally discovered in 1966. This is true although no doctor did any extensive research until Dr. Omalu came along and no one had named it except for boxers where it was referred to as “punch drunk”. Omalu has been researching CTE for the last 14 years. It all started when he did an autopsy on a pro NFL player, Mike Webster. The brain initially looked normal until Omalu dissected it and discovered an abnormal protein called Tau in the brain. Once he began to bring all this information to the public, Omalu got quite a bit of resistance from the NFL. From all this Omalu inspired a movie called “Concussion” to help raise awareness for the diagnosis of CTE. Take a look at this clip to describe more in relation to Dr. Omalu and his discovery.
Back in the 1920’s a diagnosis called “dementia pugilistica” referred to boxers who had been hit so many times in the head. Now in 2016 it is recognized as CTE in all physically active sports and even in the military. CTE may have some similar symptoms as Alzheimer’s disease but they are different. Alzheimer’s is associated by genetics and CTE is known to be caused from repeated blows to the head. As I am sure this information is new to you, it is still in the infancy stages of development. Please take a few minutes to watch this clip of the movie “Concussion” as well as a brief interview with Will Smith who plays Dr. Omalu in the film. It is very interesting his take on playing the character.
Where does this leave you as the parent?
Be sure that your child wears a helmet with any physical activity that you can use a helmet. Check with your child’s coach as to what the rules are in place regarding head contact. Be sure to take your child to the doctor if you feel that they may have suffered a concussion or even a sub concussive hit to the head. Researchers are still looking for more information to understand CTE completely. For now do what you can as a parent to protect your children’s brain for the future. See your pediatrician for more information regarding CTE and head trauma.
References:
Steiger, B. (2016). Meet Bennet Omalu, MD: The Physician Leader Whose Research Inspired The Movie Concussion. Physician Leadership Journal,3(2), mar/April 2016, 8-10. Retrieved May 5, 2016.
Drysdale, T. A. (2013). Helmet-to-Helmet Contact: Avoiding a Lifetime Penalty by Creating a Duty to Scan Active NFL Players for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. Journal of Legal Medicine, 34(4), 425-452. doi:10.1080/01947648.2013.859969
Wortzel, H. S., Brenner, L. A., & Arciniegas, D. B. (2013). Traumatic Brain Injury and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: A Forensic Neuropsychiatric Perspective. Behavioral Sciences & the Law Behav. Sci. Law,31(6), 721-738. doi:10.1002/bsl.2079
Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world. One out of every 5 deaths in the United States is linked to cigarette smoking. Some people think they are not at risk for developing lung cancer if they have never smoked, however, this is not true. While cigarette smoke is the number one risk factor for developing lung cancer, non smokers are also at risk.
Cigarette smoking also increases your risk for developing:
heart disease
heart attack
emphysema
stroke
death from copd
blood clots
infertility
peripheral vascular disease
abdominal aortic aneurysm
low birth weight, miscarriage, pre term delivery
still birth, infant death, and SIDS
low bone density, gum disease, immune system dysfunction, sexual impotence in men, and increased risk for hip fracture in women.
Smoking also directly affects the heart by causing inflammation and can affect the heart’s rhythm. Smoking’s main effect on the heart leads to artery blockage and results in reduced oxygen supply. This increases the effort of the heart to beat normally. Toxins found in tobacco cause increased clotting in the blood which increases the risk of developing blood clots. Nicotine is the addictive ingredient found in tobacco smoke. Nicotine affects the nerves that control heart rhythm and can cause irregular heart beats. Smoking increases the risk for heart failure as well as the risk for heart attacks by almost three-fold compared to people that have never smoked. Smoking causes narrowing of the arteries and decreased blood supply to the heart and can lead to sudden death.
Exposure to Second Hand Smoke
Exposure to second hand smoke increases your risk of developing:
lung cancer
coronary artery disease
lung disease
slow lung development
SIDS
asthma
ear infections in children
premature death
When you are around someone who smokes, you are breathing in the same chemicals and toxins that the smoker breathes in. Second hand smoke is also linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, breast cancer, nasal sinus cancer in adults, and leukemia, lymphoma, and brain tumors in children. No one is risk free when exposed to second hand smoke.
Lung Cancer Risk in Never-smokers
25% of lung cancers are not caused by direct smoking
15-35% of lung cancer is caused by exposure to second hand smoke
While lung cancer has the highest incident of mortality in the world, people believe they are not at risk for developing lung cancer if they do not directly smoke cigarettes.
References
Clément-Duchêne, C., & Wakelee, H. (2010). Lung Cancer Incidence in Never Smokers. European Journal Of Clinical & Medical Oncology, 2(2), 49-57.
Cope, G. (2013). The effect of smoking on the cardiovascular system. British Journal Of Cardiac Nursing, 8(4), 174-178 5p.
Crane-Godreau, M. A., & Payne, P. (2013). A history of second hand smoke exposure: are we asking the right questions?. Frontiers In Physiology, 1-2. doi:10.3389/fphys.2013.00025
Opioid users are at high risk of suffering from drug overdoses. The number of heroin overdoses have increased throughout the years. Naloxone has been used for decades during emergencies to reverse the symptoms of opioid overdose. By making naloxone more widely available, studies have shown that the drug is useful in reducing opioid overdose-related deaths.
What is naloxone (Narcan)? It is a prescription medicine that reverses an opioid overdose safely and effectively. It cannot be used to get high and is not addictive.
How does naloxone help? Naloxone is an antidote to opioid drugs. Opioid drugs include: Heroin, morphine, oxycodone (Oxycontin), methadone, hydrocodone (Vicodin), codeine, and other prescription pain medications. Opioids can slow or stop a person’s breathing, which causes death. Naloxone helps the person wake up and keeps them breathing.
An overdose death may happen hours after taking drugs. If a bystander acts when they first notice a person’s breathing has slowed, or when they can’t awaken a user, there is time to call 911, start rescue breathing and give naloxone.
Please note:Naloxone does not prevent deaths caused by other drugs such as benzodiazepines (e.g. Xanax®, Klonopin® and Valium®), bath salts, cocaine, methamphetamine or alcohol. Always call 911 as an overdose victim may need other care.
How can you give naloxone? Bystanders can safely and legally spray naloxone into the nose or inject it into a muscle.
How long does it take naloxone to work? Naloxone acts in 2-5 minutes. If the person doesn’t wake up in 5 minutes, bystanders should give a second dose. Rescue breathing should be done while you wait for the naloxone to take effect to that the person gets oxygen to their brain.
Can naloxone wear off before the drugs that cause the overdose? Yes. Naloxone typically wears off in 30-90 minutes and the person can stop breathing again, unless more naloxone is available. For this reason, it is safest to call 911 and have the person taken for medical care.
Can naloxone harm someone? No. If you suspect an opioid overdose, it is safe to give naloxone. People who used opioids will then wake up and go into withdrawal.
Is the overdose scene in the movie Pulp Fiction realistic? No. Pulp Fiction is a movie! An opioid overdose victim acts the opposite of how Uma Thurman acts in the movie. A person overdosing from heroin or pain medication may be very quiet or irregularly snoring or gasping. Gradually the breathing slows or stops as their skin turns dusky blue or gray. In real life, bystanders who witness an overdose SHOULD NOT INJECT ANYTHING INTO THE HEART. Instead, they should squirt naloxone into the nose, or inject naloxone into the upper arm (deltoid) or the thigh.
Where can I get naloxone? Given the ongoing burden of opioid addiction, The Take Home Naloxone Program allows not only doctors, but also pharmacists at your local pharmacy, to provide naloxone education and take-home kits to high-risk hospitalized patients with an opioid use disorder and their family and friends.
Is naloxone just a “safety net” that allows users to use even more? Research studies have investigated this common concern and found that making naloxone available does NOT encourage people to use opiates more. The goal of distributing naloxone and educating people about how to prevent, recognize and intervene in overdoses is to prevent deaths. Other goals, such as decreasing drug use, can only be accomplished if the user is alive.
HELP IS AVAILABLE!
If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction and seeking treatment these resources are here to help!
Massachusetts Substance Abuse Information and Education Helpline Phone toll free: 1-800-327-5050 (Available 24/7!) www.helpline-online.com
The Institute for Health and Recovery Phone: 1-866-705-2807
References
Breedvelt, J. F., Tracey, D. K., Dickenson, E. C., & Dean, L. V. (2015). “Take home” naloxone: what does the evidence base tell us?. Drugs & Alcohol Today, 15(2), 67-75 9p. doi:10.1108/DAT-03-2015-0017
Johnson, C., Buxton, J., Harrison, S., Ahamad, K., Nolan, S., Lappalainen, L., & … Wood, E. (2016). Implementation of a Naloxone Distribution Program in an Inpatient Addiction Service: A Case Study. Canadian Journal Of Addiction, 7(1), 22-25.
McConnell, E. (1996). Myths & facts… about naloxone. Nursing, 26(8), 17-17 1p.
Link
True or False? Flu Shots
This blog reviews common beliefs about the flu vaccine and provides evidence-based research to help the reader make up his or her own mind on the issues.
Flu vaccine for 2014-2015 only had an 18% effectiveness rate.-false The effectiveness of the flu vaccine varies, “recent studies show vaccine reduces the risk of flu illness by about 50% to 60% among the overall population during seasons when most circulating flu viruses are like the vaccine viruses.” (CDC, 2015)
Flu shot side effects are deadly. –mostly false Common side effects from the flu shot include the following and last 1-2 days: • Soreness, redness, and/or swelling from the shot • Headache • Fever • Nausea • Muscle aches In those over 65 who received a flu shot, researchers found antibody concentrations were between 38 percent and 67 percent lower than those in people not taking statins. –may be true Two studies have shown patients over 65 years old on statins to reduce blood cholesterol levels have had reduced responses to influenza vaccines. Additional research is necessary to reproduce these results. (Knapton, 2015)
The flu shot actually makes you sick to begin with. -false The flu vaccine does not cause illness. “Flu vaccines that are administered with a needle are currently made in two ways: the vaccine is made either with flu vaccine viruses that have been ‘inactivated’ and are therefore not infectious, or with no flu vaccine viruses at all which is the case for recombinant influenza vaccine.” (DHHS, May) People who are at high risk of developing serious complications (like pneumonia) if they get sick with the flu should get the influenza vaccine. • People who have certain medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease. • Pregnant women. • People younger than 5 years (and especially those younger than 2), and people 65 years and older. (Alaska Nurse, 2013, p. 9) According to the CDC, individuals in the following groups should not receive the seasonal influenza virus vaccine without consulting a physician: • Individuals with a severe allergy to chicken eggs, • Individuals who have had a severe reaction to a seasonal influenza virus vaccination in the past, • Individuals who previously had onset of Guillain-Barre syndrome during the six weeks after receiving the seasonal influenza virus vaccine, • Children aged younger than six months, and • Individuals who have a moderate to severe illness with a fever (these individuals should wait until their symptoms improve) (Alaska Nurse, 2013, p. 9)
Flu vaccines contain dangerous ingredients such as mercury. –true multi-dose vials Today, except for some flu vaccines in multi-dose vials, no recommended childhood vaccines contain thimerosal as a preservative. Thimerosal is a mercury-containing compound that prevents the growth of dangerous bacteria and fungus. It is used as a preservative for flu vaccines in multi-dose vials, to keep the vaccine free from contamination. Thimerosal is also used during the manufacturing process for some vaccines to prevent the growth of microbes. (Understanding Thimerosal,Mercury, and Vaccine Safety, 2013) To find a full list of influenza vaccines and the ingredients, go to this site: Vaccine Content
Lack of real evidence that young children even benefit from flu shots.-false Children younger than 6 months old These children are too young to be vaccinated. The best way to protect them is to make sure people around them are vaccinated. Children aged 6 months up to their 5th birthday It is estimated that each year in the United States, there are more than 20,000 children younger than 5 years old who are hospitalized due to flu. Even children in this age group who are otherwise healthy are at risk simply because of their age. In addition, children 2 years of age up to their 5th birthday are more likely than healthy older children to be taken to a doctor, an urgent care center, or the emergency room because of flu. To protect their health, all children 6 months and older should be vaccinated against the flu each year. Vaccinating young children, their families, and other caregivers can also help protect them from getting sick. (CDC, 2015)
Flu shot makes you more susceptible to pneumonia and other contagious diseases. -false People who are at high risk of developing serious complications (like pneumonia) if they get sick with the flu should get the influenza vaccine. (Alaska Nurse, 2013, p. 9)
Increased cases of narcolepsy (a chronic sleep disorder) in 12 different countries after receiving flu vaccine. -Partially true “An increased risk of narcolepsy was found following vaccination with Pandemrix, a monovalent 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine that was used in several European countries during the H1N1 influenza pandemic. Pandemrix was not licensed for use in the United States. In fact, no adjuvanted influenza vaccines are licensed in the United States, and no adjuvanted influenza vaccines were used in the United States during the influenza pandemic or in any other influenza season.” (CDC, 2015)
Evidence now suggests that ingredients in flu vaccinations can actually cause serious neurological disorders. -false Children of any age with neurologic conditions are more likely than other children to become very sick if they get the flu. Flu complications may vary and for some children, can include pneumonia and even death.
Neurologic conditions can include: • Disorders of the brain and spinal cord • Cerebral palsy • Epilepsy (seizure disorders) • Stroke • Intellectual disability • Moderate to severe developmental delay • Muscular dystrophy • Spinal cord injury Some children with neurologic conditions may have trouble with muscle function, lung function or difficulty coughing, swallowing, or clearing fluids from their airways. These are problems that can make flu symptoms worse. Vaccination is the Best Protection against Flu
Seasonal influenza vaccination • All adults should receive seasonal influenza vaccination • Vaccination is highly recommended for all smokers, residents of skilled nursing/long-term care facilities, and persons with chronic lung disease (including asthma), chronic cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, chronic alcoholism, functional or anatomic asplenia (e.g., sickle cell disease or splenectomy [if elective splenectomy is planned, vaccinate at least 2 weeks before surgery]), conditions that compromise immune function (e.g., chronic renal failure, nephrotic syndrome), cochlear implant, or cerebrospinal fluid leak • Influenza-related hospitalization rates are 4 times higher and mortality rates are 10 times higher in patients with cancer compared with the general population. Authors of a Cochrane review found evidence that influenza vaccination reduces mortality in this patient population (Eliakim-Raz et al., 2013)
References Alaska Nurse. (2013, Oct/Nov). Flu Vaccines: Patient Education. Alaska Nurse, 63(4). Retrieved from http://library.neit.edu:2048/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ccm&AN=107934716&site=ehost-live CDC. (2015, August 21). Children, the Flu, and the Flu Vaccine. Retrieved from CDC.gov: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/children.htm CDC. (2015, August 28). Narcolepsy Following Pandemrix Influenza Vaccination in Europe. Retrieved from CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/history/narcolepsy-flu.html CDC. (2015, December 21). Vaccine Effectiveness – How Well Does the Flu Vaccine Work? Retrieved from CDC.gov: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/vaccineeffect.htm CDC. (2015, April). Vaccine Excipient & Media Summary-Appendix B. Retrieved from CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/downloads/appendices/b/excipient-table-2.pdf DHHS. (May, 2015 4). Flu Key Facts. Retrieved from CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm Knapton, S. (2015, October 29). Statins could stop flu jab working properly. Daily Telegraph . Retrieved from http://library.neit.edu:2048/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=n5h&AN=8Q2105586518&site=ehost-live Luther, D. (2013, January 12). Five Reasons Why I’ll Never Get a Flu Shot. Retrieved from The Organic Prepper: http://www.theorganicprepper.ca/five-reasons-why-ill-never-get-a-flu-shot-01122013 Mercola, D. (2015, December 1). Flu Flop: Another Year of Dangerous CDC Lies. Retrieved from Mercola.com: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/12/01/another-flu-vaccine-flop.aspx Morelli, R. (2013, September 16). 11 Reasons Why Flu Shots Are More Dangerous Than A Flu. Retrieved from Conspiracy Analyst: https://conspiracyanalyst.org/2013/09/16/11-reasons-why-flu-shots-are-more-dangerous-than-a-flu/ Understanding Thimerosal,Mercury, and Vaccine Safety. (2013, February). Retrieved from CDC.gov: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/conversations/downloads/vacsafe-thimerosal-color-office.pdf
Diabetes means your blood glucose (blood sugar), levels are too high. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In the United States, Canada, and Europe, about 90 percent of all people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. With type 2 diabetes, your body does not make or use insulin well. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose get into your cells to give them energy. Without insulin, too much glucose remains in your blood. Over a long period of time, high blood glucose levels can lead to serious issues with your eyes, heart, nerves, kidneys, and gums and teeth.
You are more likely to get type 2 diabetes if you:
are age 45 or older
are overweight/obese
are physically inactive
have a parent, brother, or sister with diabetes
have high blood pressure or high cholesterol—blood fat
have abnormal levels of HDL, or good, cholesterol or triglycerides—another type of blood fat
had gestational diabetes—diabetes that develops only during pregnancy—or gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pound
have prediabetes—meaning your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be labeled as diabetes
are African American, Alaska Native, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, or Pacific Islander American
What are some symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes?
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes appear gradually. With some people, symptoms go completely unnoticed. The symptoms may include:
Excessive thirst
Frequent urination
Increased hunger or fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Having wounds or sores that heal slowly
Experiencing blurry eyesight
Managing your Type 2 Diabetes
There is a test known as an A1C, which can help you check up on how well you are managing your diabetes. Many people are able to manage their diabetes through healthy lifestyle choices like; maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and blood glucose testing. Some people also need to take diabetes medicines.
Diabetes Treatment Options
Where can you get more information about Type 2 Diabetes?
In today’s society many people reference hospice workers as the “grim reaper” or “nurse of death”, and don’t fully understand the importance of hospice. Throughout history, little recognition has been given to hospice or palliative care, as it tends to counter everything the Hippocratic Oath stands for. Patients are often hesitant to discuss death or hospice because of the preconceived notion they have of it. They may think they will be given morphine continuously until they are comatose and eventually it causes them to pass away as their respiration’s decrease.
What is Hospice?
Hospice is medical care provided to a patient who if their medical condition were to progress on the expected course, only has less than six months to live due to a terminal disease. However, hospice care also incorporates the patients physical, emotional, spiritual well-being as well as their immediate families. Hospice may take place in the patients own residence, the hospital, nursing home or at an inpatient center to better control their symptoms. Hospice care concentrates on managing a patient’s pain and other symptoms so that the patient may live as comfortable as possible and make the most of the time that remains. Hospice care also believes the quality of life is just as important as their length of life.
Will my family member constantly get morphine?
One common misconception about hospice is that patients are given morphine around the clock, until they pass away. Patients receive morphine to help control any symptoms such as pain or respiratory distress, which have not been properly managed without the use of the narcotic. Either the patient or their family members are asked
Are they in any pain?
Are they having any shortness of breath?
What is the pain like, could you rate it and how is it effecting your daily life?
Do you want any pain medication to help control your symptoms?
Morphine is also not the first go to method to help control our patients pain. Initially the patient will try other medications and interventions such as re-positioning, heat, ice or distraction to help control their pain. Some patient may only require morphine for a short period of time to better control their symptoms, and once they are stabilized they may be weaned onto another medication, or different dose.
Morphine Myths
The patient will become addicted
They will be too sedated to function properly, such as eat or communicate with their family
Morphine will cause them to die sooner
It can only be given IV, or from an injection
Its only given to patients right before they pass away
The patient should wait to take it until their pain is unbearable before asking for their dose of morphine.
Nurses are asked to over medicate patients to save the organization money
What are the Levels of Hospice
Routine: Standard level of care given in the home, long term care facility or assisted living facility. Care includes visits from the hospice nurse, chaplain, social worker and home health aides as well as 24-hour on call nursing support.
Inpatient Care: Sometimes pain or symptoms cannot be controlled at home, and the patient is taken to a hospital or other inpatient care center. When the symptoms are under control, the patient returns home. Insurance usually covers the cost of inpatient room and board.
Respite Care : Many patients have their own caregivers, often family members. When caregivers need a rest from their care giving responsibilities, patients can stay in a nursing home or hospice residential care center for up to five days. Medicare covers the cost of room and board, as do many other insurance plans.
Continuous Care: Sometimes a patient has a medical crisis that needs close medical attention. When this happens, we can arrange for inpatient care, or the hospice provider staff can provide round-the-clock care in the home. When the crisis is over, the patient returns to routine home care.
Why Should I choose Hospice for Loved One?
Hospice cares for not only the patient but also the family, both while the patient is alive and after their passing. Bereavement care is often offered to family members for twelve to thirteen months after the patient has passed away.
Respite care is offered for the caregivers of hospice patients for up to five days, for their loved one to receive 24/7 nursing care in a medical facility while the family gets a break, or tends to any needs or plans they have to deal with.
Hospice aims to help control a patients symptoms, so they may enjoy whatever time they may have left, and make the most of those days.
It provides physical, emotional and spiritual guidance as they transition into this new phase.
Hospice care is provided by most insurance plans including Medicare and Medicaid so the family and patient does not incur any further fees for inpatient care or medications related to their terminal diagnosis.
References
Carding, S., Middleton-Green, L., Perkins, P., & Taylor, V. (2015). Hospice Nurses’ Views on Single Nurse Administration of Controlled Drugs. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 21(7), 319-327.
Dobrina, R., Palese, A., & Tenze, M. (2014, February). An Overview of Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing Models and Theories. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 20(2), 75-81.
Kolsky, K. (2012, September). End of Life: Helping with Comfort and Care, Providing Comfort at the End of Life. National Institute of Aging, 1-72.
Spencer, L. (2015, May). Hospice to Home: A Patient-Centric Multiprofessional Community Approach. International Jornal of Palliative Nursing, 21(5), 245-250.
Everyone has heard about the Zika virus. That wasn’t the case a couple of years ago, especially in the US. The Zika virus is a flavivirus which is transmitted by various tropical mosquitos. Other viruses from the genus flaviviridae include west nile and dengue virus. Why has there been so much recent hype about the Zika virus when it has been identified since 1947? Previously, the infection was thought to be benign, just a rash and fever lasting a few days, and even no symptoms at all in 80% of the cases. Over the years there have been a couple of outbreaks in various parts of the world but there was minimal buzz. Why is this outbreak different? Approximately 7-8 months after the height of this latest outbreak was identified in Brazil in early 2015, children were born with neural defects such as microcephaly (small head) at alarming rates. Cases of microcephaly in Brazil went from 200 per year to around 4000 suspected cases in 2015 following the Zika outbreak. This warranted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern”.
Now the WHO and the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have declared both the infections of Zika virus and the cases of microcephaly both epidemics in Brazil. Both organizations hesitated, at first, to link the Zika virus to the increase of microcephaly cases. There was no definitive proof that the virus caused this birth defect. It has taken about 6 months since the uptick of microcephalic births in Brazil for the CDC to confirm a correlation between Zika virus infections and these specific birth defects. Caution was taken not to jump to any conclusions without scientific evidence, even though the writing was on the wall.
So why did it take so long for these experts to confirm a link between the virus and the microcephaly cases? The scientific evidence used is based on a set of rules called Shepard’s criteria for proof of human teratogenicity (causing birth defects). This criteria is based on seven conditions in which at least three must be met. One of the conditions met by Zika virus is the timing of exposure for the pregnant women, the first trimester, when brain development is known to occur in the fetus. Many of these Brazilian babies born in October of 2015 had brain development occurring, in utero, during the height of the Zika outbreak in March of 2015. It is also known that other viruses cause some of these same defects at this critical time in the brains development, during the first and second trimester. Other conditions pointing towards a connection relate to the rarity of the infection and the rarity of the birth defect. This is seen in cases where the mother is exposed during travel to infected areas during her first trimester and this birth defect occurs back home where both the infection and defect are rare. Scientist do not have the data from previous studies or animal testing to present the research evidence linking the virus to the defect so they rely on this criteria to confirm the correlation.
With this new declaration, warnings on travel and exposure during pregnancy can be fully supported. Also suggested by the CDC and WHO is delaying pregnancy if exposure is possible. More research must be conducted including testing of the expectant mothers for infection and corresponding ultrasound or amniocentesis. Not only should pregnant women avoid these infected areas, they should practice safe sex with those who have travelled to these areas.
The type of mosquito which carries the Zika virus is found in the southern continental US and a similar type of mosquito has been thought to be capable of carrying the virus and it is found in further north. So far there have been no cases of Zika virus infections in the US from a mosquito bite except in Puerto Rico. Transmission through sex with someone who has travelled to an infected country has been identified in the US.
The CDC has an up to date website with Zika virus statistics for the US including cases from travel or sexually transmitted infections. There is also a description of symptoms, maps of the outbreak, prevention measures and the latest new updates. WWW.CDC.gov/zika/index.html
The bottom line is avoid mosquito bites, avoid travel to effected areas if pregnant or considering pregnancy, practice safe sex if pregnant or consider delaying pregnancy if your partner has been in the effected area. Even though the Zika virus is merely a fever, rash and some other annoying symptoms for most, it can be spread by a mosquito bite and can have a devastating effect on an unborn child.
References
Al-Qahtani, A. A., Nazir, N., Al-Anazi, M. R., Rubino, S., & Al-Ahdal, M. N. (2016). Zika virus: a new pandemic threat. Journal Of Infection In Developing Countries, 10(3), 201-207. doi:10.3855/jidc.8350
Fellner, C. (2016). Zika Virus: Anatomy of a Global Health Crisis. P & T: A Peer-Reviewed Journal For Formulary Management, 41(4), 242-253.
Rasmussen, S .A., Jamieson, D. J., Honein, M. A., & Peterson, L. R. (2016). Zika Virus and Birth Defects — Reviewing the Evidence for Causality [Special report]. The New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMsr1604338
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lungs. To better understand asthma, lets talk a little about what happens when you breathe. Normally, with every breath you take, air goes through your nose or your mouth and down into your throat, eventually making it to your lungs. There are many small air passages in your lungs that help bring oxygen from the air into your bloodstream. Symptoms of asthma occur when the lining of these air passages swell up and the muscles around them tighten. Mucus then fills the airways, further reducing the amount of air that can pass through. These conditions then bring on an asthma attack.
Symptoms of Asthma
Wheezing – a whistling sound heard when breathing in or out.
Coughing– a cough that may not go away and often occurs or worsens at night or early morning.
Chest Tightness – feeling as if something is squeezing or sitting on your chest.
Shortness of Breath – feeling as though you can’t catch your breath. You may feel as though you are breathless.
Causes of Asthma
Exposure to different types of irritants and substances that trigger allergies (allergens) can trigger signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma triggers are different from person to person and can include:
Airborne allergens (pollen, animal dander, mold, cockroaches, and dust mites)
Respiratory infections (common cold)
Physical activity (exercise)
Air pollutants and irritants (smoke)
Certain medications (beta blockers, Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen (Aleve)
Emotions & stress
Sulfites & preservatives added to types of foods and beverages, including shrimp, dried fruit, processed potatoes, beer and wine
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acids back up into your throat
Treatment
There are many medicines to treat asthma. Many people with asthma need two kinds: quick-relief medicines and long-term control medicines.
Patients may be hesitant to take medication because of the potential side effects or cost. If you have such concerns, speak with your allergist. Your allergist will help you with finding the right medicine for you, or combination of medicines, to manage your asthma and will adjust the dosage accordingly based on your symptoms and control. You want to be able to feel your best while taking the least amount of medicine.
Quick-relief medicines are taken at the first sign of symptoms for immediate relief:
Short-acting inhaled beta2-agonists
Anticholinergics
Both types of drugs are bronchodilators, meaning that they help expand the passageways into the lungs, allowing more air in and out and improving breathing. They also help to clear mucus from the lungs by enabling the mucus to move more freely and get coughed up more easily.
If you have exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), also known as exercise-induced asthma, your allergist may recommend that you use these medicines before exercise or other strenuous physical activity.
Quick-relief medicines can stop asthma symptoms, but they do not control the airway inflammation that causes the symptoms. If you find that you need your quick-relief medicine to treat asthma symptoms more than twice a week, or two or more nights a month, then your asthma is not well controlled.
Long-term control medicines are taken every day to prevent symptoms and attacks:
Antileukotrienes/leukotriene modifiers
Cromolyn sodium & nedocromil
Inhaled corticosteroids
Long-acting inhaled beta2-agonists (always administered with another asthma-related drug)
Methylxanthines
Oral corticosteroids
Immunomodulators
These medicines are taken every day, even if you do not have symptoms. The most effective long-term control medicines reduce airway inflammation and help improve asthma control.
Reference:
Rubin, B. K. (2016). Asthma 2015: The Year in Review. Respiratory Care, 61(4), 556-559 4p. doi:10.4187/respcare.04694
What is asthma? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/asthma. Accessed May 8, 2016.
Global strategy for asthma management and prevention (2015 update). Global Initiative for Asthma. http://www.ginasthma.org/documents/4. Accessed May 8, 2016.
In recent years, the media has been swamped with stories concerning negative side effects of vaccinating children. The most common of these side effects includes the onset of autism. Media outlets, including the never variety of social media sites, have made the spread of opinion and “knowledge”, quick and easy, resulting in misguided beliefs and confusion. This has resulted in many people believing that it is unsafe to vaccinate their children, which in turn puts much of the population at risk. The “Anti-Vaxxers” as they’ve been dubbed, firmly believe that vaccinating a child, is contributing to their death.
Vaccine History in Brief
The idea of vaccinating began as early as the 1800s, when George Washington began having colonial troops inoculated against the smallpox virus. Over the years as science and technology grew, the development of vaccines occurred. In the 1960s, the United States government developed vaccination eradication plans, which involved a mandatory schedule for all children to be vaccinated against deadly, contagious viruses prior to entering school. Although slightly varied, this schedule is still in effect.
The Truth in the Matter
Despite the number of “Anti-Vaxxers” who firmly believe that vaccination results in disorders such as autism occur, multiple studies on vaccines, and their ingredients have shown that there is no directly link to autism. There is certainly risk with vaccination, allergies, infection, and potential death could occur, but the severe occurrences are few and far between. That being said the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.
If you have concerns about vaccination, you should do the following:
Seek advice from medical professionals only.
Schedule an appointment with a pediatrician, who can discuss vaccination schedules.
When researching information on the internet, obtain information from cited sources, that are scientific in nature, and a result of research.
Avoid information found on social media sites that does not include any evidence to back up claims.
References:
Dixon, G., & Clarke, C. (2013). The effect of falsely balanced reporting of the autism–vaccine controversy on vaccine safety perceptions and behavioral intentions. Health Education Research, 28(2), 352-359 8p.
Evidence Shows Vaccines Unrelated to Autism. (2015). In N. Merino (Ed.), At Issue. Vaccines. Farmington Hills, MI: Greenhaven Press.
The Benefits of Vaccination Outweigh the Risks. (2015). In N. Merino (Ed.), At Issue. Vaccines. Farmington Hills, MI: Greenhaven Press.
Also called type one diabetes, effects all ages but it is primarily diagnosed in children and adolescents. Only 5% of people with diabetes have type 1. It is an autoimmune disease that effects the pancreas and its ability to make insulin. The body no longer breaks down insulin which is a hormone that breaks down sugar. Without insulin the sugar can not be broken down in the blood stream and converted into energy in the cells. In order to give the body insulin, injections or an insulin pump is needed.
Signs of Juvenile Diabetes
As of right now they are not sure what causes Juvenile diabetes. It can happen at any age and can happen out of know where. It is important that you know some of the signs to look for. When diagnosed with diabetes the blood sugar will be high because the insulin can not break it down. If the sugar goes to high it can be potentially fatal.
Along with high blood sugar, low blood sugar is also a concern. If the body has to much insulin in the blood stream it will break down to much sugar.
Misconceptions of Juvenile Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is caused by being overweight
People with type 1 diabetes can’t eat sugar
Adults can’t get type 1 diabetes
Kids will grow out of type 1 diabetes
Artificial sweeteners are good for people with type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is hereditary
You get type 1 diabetes from eating too much sugar
People with type 1 diabetes can’t play sports
The insulin pump cures type 1 diabetes
. Type 1 diabetes can be cured with diet and exercise
Reference
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. (2014). Medicine on the Net, 20(5), 10-11 2p.
Vishwanath, A. (2014). Negative Public Perceptions of Juvenile Diabetics: Applying Attribution Theory to Understand the Public’s Stigmatizing Views. Health Communication, 29(5), 516-526 11p. doi:10.1080/10410236.2013.777685
This blog is to help parents understand the importance of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and how it could affect their children.
True or False? 
