What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

By: Steven Depolo

According to Mayo Clinic, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), can be defined as a chronic  inflammatory disorder that affects your joints and more. Being an autoimmune disorder, RA occurs when our body mistakenly attacks the body tissue in mainly the joints.

Risk Factors of RA

By: Internet Archive Book Images

Rheumatoid Arthritis attacks the fluid surrounding the joints in the body. Doctors are not sure of the exact reason that the body starts to attack itself.

• Your Sex
• Your Age
• Family History
• Smoking
• Environmental factors
• Obesity

Common Symptoms of RA

• • Morning stiffness for 30 minutes or longer
  • More than one joint is affected
  • Small joints such as wrist, hands, and feet are affected most
  • Pain, fatigue, loss of appetite
  • Symptoms of pain may come and go. This is called a “flare up” when symptoms get worse

Ways to manage RA

Medicines like, Humira, are out there in the media world. They are providing advertisements that make it seem as though living with RA is as simple as taking a pill and being cured. FALSE! While medicines, like Humira, are out on the market, they may only alleviate some pain that occurs with RA. It is impossible to sell a drug that can all of a sudden give you the energy and movement to build an entire playground.

Diet is a way that anyone can do to manage RA symptoms. It is found that the mediterranean diet is beneficial for those with RA symptoms. This diet includes a lot of healthy fats and omega-3-fatty acids. These types of foods are beneficial to decrease inflammation in the body which causes RA pain.

Foods high in healthy fats include: avocados, olive oil, eggs, nuts, chia seeds, and more

Foods high in omega 3-fatty acids: fish (salmon), walnuts, soybeans, chia seeds, flaxseeds, canola oil

According to Dr. Oz, there is a newer item on the line that shows to improve pain from arthritis. The concept is called “Pulse Magnetic Therapy”. This concept allows a person to lay on a mat with magnets deep inside the mat. While the person is laying on the mat, the magnetic force pulses deep within the skin to reduce inflammation. There are no contraindications of this item.

By: Dave Rosenblum

Other alternative medicines for RA include yoga, tai chi, pilates, meditation, etc. Alternative medicines are becoming more and more common in today’s society to steer away from expensive medicines that may not work. Different methods work for different people, we are not all alike.

References 

Den Bosch, F., Oster, A., Wassenberg, S., Chen, N., Wang, C., Garg, V., & Kalabic, J. (2017). Impact of Participation in the Adalimumab (Humira) Patient Support Program on Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Course: Results from the PASSION Study. Rheumatology & Therapy, 4(1), 85-96. Doi:10.1007/s40744-017-0061-7

Markoll, R., Da Silvia Ferreira, D., Toohil, T. (2003). Pulsed Signal Therapy: An Overview. Journal of Rheumatology, (6), 89-100.

Rheumatoid Arthritis. (2017, Aug 09). Retrieved February 20, 2018, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/disease-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648

Sarzi-Puttini, P., Comi D, Boccassini, L., Muzzupappa, S., Turiel, M., Panni, B., & Salvaggio, A. (2000). Diet Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Controlled Double-Blind Study of Two Different Regimens. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology, 29(5), 302-307. Doi: 10.1080/030097400447688

Vaccines and Autism -By Dawn E.

Fact or Fiction : Vaccines cause autism.

By: James St. John

By: Juhan Sonin

The CDC defines a vaccine as product that stimulates a person’s immune system to produce immunity to a specific disease, protecting the person from that disease. Examples of some childhood vaccinations that are routinely given on a schedule, are measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, and chicken pox. The risk of non-vaccination is that the diseases of the past, that were once thought to be eradicated, are coming back. For example, measles has had a recent resurgence.

Vaccine administration is: 

• by injection
• orally
• nasally

By: Jesper Sehested

Autism( also known as Autism spectrum disorder) is described by the CDC as a developmental disability that can cause social, communication and behavioral challenges. Some signs of autism that are seen in early infancy are reduced eye contact or indifference to caregivers. Other times, children appear to be developing normally, but become withdrawn or lose skills such as language, that they had already mastered. Due to the different symptoms involved with autism, the severity is measured by the level of impairment.

An example of a scenario in which vaccines might be blamed for autism by a parent,  is a family that has a seemingly normal child who is meeting all of their milestones. Then, one day they receive a few vaccines at the pediatricians office. Soon after this, the child becomes withdrawn, stops interacting, or if they had been verbal, then they suddenly become non-verbal. The timing of the vaccines, along with these symptoms may happen nearly at the same time or close to it. Hence, the vaccines being blamed for autism by some parents.

Myth : Vaccines cause Autism.

Some parents are opting to not vaccinate their children because they believe that vaccines cause autism. The media has played a part in these beliefs with certain famous people speaking out against vaccinating children. Jenny McCarthy for example, speaks out against vaccines for children by verbalizing her beliefs about the mercury in the vaccines. She believes that the mercury has something to do with causing autism. Robert DeNiro has voiced his concerns over vaccines, due to his son having autism. Aiden Quinn has a daughter with autism that he believes came from a reaction to a vaccine. There are many other famous people that make public appeals against vaccines, as well. 

Due to parental concerns over vaccinations, diseases that were once thought of as eradicated, are coming  back. There is NOT any scientific evidence to support the claims that vaccines are linked to autism. There are understandable fears regarding autism, but fears are not facts.

The video above gives some detailed information about vaccines and autism. It is by a pediatrician who not only treat autistic children, but believes that vaccines are safe. The timing of autism correlates with the time frame of some vaccines, especially the MMR vaccine. But, as the speaker says, humans look for answers. The timing sometimes correlates, but the scientific evidence is not there.

Dixon & Clarke (2013) talk about the controversy surrounding vaccines and risks of autism. Although there have been numerous studies stating that there is not a link between vaccines and autism, journalists tend to report on the topic in a way that shows both sides of the controversy. However, in doing so, the scientific opinion is often over-looked. . The article mentions that with the media attention to the controversy, the rate of people getting vaccinations went down because of safety concerns.

Edwards and Hackell (2016) discuss the hesitancy that some parents have in regard to vaccinating their children. They revealed that some parents’ refusal is related to feelings that the vaccines are not necessary, and others have fears about autism. Their article says that parents should be educated by their physicians about the effectiveness of vaccines, and risks reviewed about serious diseases that could occur without vaccinations.

An article by Zangger (2017) discusses the importance and the benefits of parental education about vaccines by their pediatrician. Some parents are not completely against vaccines, but are against so many being given in such a short time span. However, the CDC has guidelines for the recommended vaccination schedule.

Although the debate continues, there is not any scientific evidence linking vaccines to autism. The mercury that used to be present in some vaccines, is no longer present. However, autism is still occurring. The time frame, as discussed, is usually around the time that children receive the most vaccines. Without vaccinating children, they are left to not only catch diseases, but also spread diseases. Some parents choose to vaccinate, but not according to the CDC guidelines. Research continues to try and find the causes of autism. But, the science behind vaccines and autism does not find a link.

For more information on autism: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html

For more information on childhood vaccines:

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/tools/parents-guide/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/vaccine-decision/index.html

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.

Edwards, K. M., & Hackell, J. M. (2016). Countering Vaccine Hesitancy. Pediatrics, 138(3), e1-e14. doi:10.1542/peds.2016-2146

Zangger Eby, A. (2017). Impacting Parental Vaccine Decision-Making. Pediatric Nursing, 43(1), 22-34.

By: andinarvaez

Surprisingly, one of the best-known actor in television was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and now is raising awareness to support research for a cure. This actor is none other than, Michael J. Fox who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991.

What is Parkinson’s disease (PD)?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects a brain chemical called dopamine in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. Key signs of PD are tremors, slow movements, balance problems and stiff muscles. There is no cure for the disease but there are steps to decrease the symptoms to increase the quality of life.

The video presents a fact about Parkinson’s disease.

Myth: People with Parkinson’s all have tremors which are always caused by PD.

Fact: Tremor is the most recognized symptom of Parkinson’s, however, many patients do not have a tremor but have slow movement and rigidity such as Michael J Fox. 

Symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease

Motor symptoms:

• Uncoordinated movements
• Tremor
• Muscle rigidity
• Bradykinesia
• Postural reflex disturbance

Non-motor symptoms:

• Pain
• Constipation
• Cognitive changes
• Hallunaucation and delusions
• Sleep disorder

Parkinson’s Disease Psychosis

Even though Parkinson’s disease is known as a “movement disorder”, approximately 25-50% of patients develop psychosis which results in hallucinations and delusions. Most patients are not able to recognize the symptoms of psychosis due to decreased awareness.

Types of hallucinations and delusions: 

• Objects
• People
• Animals

Visual hallucinations are seen the majority of time in patients with common factors associated with age, duration of illness, depression, sleep disorder and cognitive impartment.

The video presents a fact about Parkinson’s disease.

Myth: Parkinson’s disease is strictly a movement-based disease.

Fact: Parkinson’s affects multiple parts of the brain, it has a range of non-motor symptoms which include hallucinations and delusions, depression, swallowing disturbances and more.

Rock Steady Boxing Fights Parkinson’s

There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, however, there are techniques to decrease the motor symptoms to increase the quality of life for the patients. Parkinson’s decreases speed, balance, and movement over a period of time. Medication can help for a while but does not cure the disease. Performing powerful movements through exercise or boxing has shown to decrease motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

The video presents a fact about Parkinson’s disease.

Myth: Medication is the only treatment option.

Fact: There are alternate options to manage symptoms. The disease is initially treated with medication but as the disease progresses, it becomes less effective. Another treatment option can be deep brain stimulation or even performing big powerful movements to decrease some symptoms.

Overall, Parkinson’s disease has become one of the most common neurological disorders which affect approximately 1 million people. It is important to be educated on the disease to learn the facts and not myths. 

For any additional information on Parkinsons’s Disease, contact Parkinson’s Foundation at 1-800-474-4636 or email at [email protected] 

References:

Cruz, M. P. (2017). Pimavanserin (Nuplazid): A Treatment for Hallucinations and Delusions Associated With Parkinson’s Disease. P&T: A Peer-Reviewed Journal For Managed Care & Formulary Management, 42(6), 368-371.

“Parkinson’s Disease Psychosis: A Caregiver’s Story.” YouTube, Parkinson’s Foundation, 3 Nov. 2015, www.youtube.com/watch?v=ai-fFiLBg7c.

Combs, S. A., Diehl, M. D., Chrzastowski, C., Didrick, N., Mccoin, B., Mox, N., & … Wayman, J. (2013). Community-based group exercise for persons with Parkinson disease: A randomized controlled trial. Neurorehabilitation, 32(1), 117-124.

“Rock Steady Boxing Fights Parkinson’s.” YouTube, CBC The National, 29 Feb. 2016, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ngeihe5MU9U.

Gökçal, E., Gür, V. E., Selvitop, R., Babacan Yildiz, G., & Asil, T. (2017). Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease: Effects on Quality of Life. Archives Of Neuropsychiatry / Noropsikiatri Arsivi, 54(2), 143-148. doi:10.5152/npa.2016.12758

“Michael J. Fox’s Fight against Parkinson’s.” YouTube, CBS Sunday Morning, 29 Oct. 2017, www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xm9tKoudTVE.

Van Horne, C. (2013). Dispelling Myths about Parkinson’s Disease. Retrieved February 18, 2018, from https://nwpf.org/stay-informed/news/2013/11/dispelling-myths-about-parkinsons-disease/

Causes & Statistics. (2018, January 03). Retrieved February 18, 2018, from http://parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/causes-and-statistics?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIh7WXmL6w2QIVgSSGCh1NewvWEAAYASAAEgIl4vD_BwE

By: woodleywonderworks

Music therapy has been used for years for many different diagnoses. One diagnosis that has not been researched much is autism. Many people think that a child who has non-verbal autism cannot communicate. Communication is not  limited to speaking words. Many forms of communicating are done via pictures, body language, and with the help of electronics. Many people over look the idea of music being a way for someone to communicate. Here is what I found to support the idea that music therapy can be used as an aid in communication and social skills in children with autism.

What is autism?

According to AutismSpeaks.org “Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences” ( “What is Autism?,” 2012). 

Common social skill deficits include:

• Verbal communication
• Non-verbal communication
• Eye contact
• Flow of conversation
• Personal space
• Peer interaction
• Turn taking

How can music therapy increase socialization?

Music therapy uses music to increase an array of skills in many different diagnoses. In terms of autism and social interactions music therapy can address the following social skills:

• Turn taking
• Eye contact
• Verbal communication
• Peer interactions
• Personal space

There are many articles that have researched the topic of whether or not music therapy is beneficial for children with autism in increasing their social participation. Many articles only looked at whether music as a whole increased social participation and not as an intervention strategy. Music therapy would be an intervention versus just listening to music.  The researchers found that more research is needed to determine if music can in fact increase social participation in children with autism.

“Therapists have learned from experience that sometimes non-verbal children can be taught to sing before they can speak. In some people the brain circuits used for singing may be more normal than the circuits used for speech” (Grandin, 2006).

Importance of vowels

One study conducted by Kaja Weeks researched the idea that songs with vowels increase social participation during music therapy. She found that this was an important component when using music therapy to increase social participation. I would recommend when using music therapy as an intervention to use songs with prominent vowels. This technique has been proven to increase the social skills in children with autism.

Some songs include:

• Apples and Bananas
• Let It Go
• A Whole New World
• Heigh Ho
• Do You Want to Build a Snowman?

By: Jeff Djevdet

Is it just spending more time with the child?

An article I read by Thompson, McFerran, and Gold, discussed the idea of using music to increase social interactions between family members and a child with autism. The study found that it only increased social participation because more attention was given to the child with autism. while this may be true, there is far more scientific evidence that supports the idea of the actual music increasing the social interactions.

Conclusion

Although more research is needed, there are many cases where music therapy has increased social participation in children with autism. Some of these cases include children who are non-verbal and start singing when they hear music. Temple Grandin, a woman who has a diagnosis of autism wrote a book called Thinking in Pictures. In her book, she stated many facts and ideas about music and its ability to increase social participation.  She explained her viewpoints on why she thinks music may be helpful in increasing social participation. Grandin stated “Possibly the song rhythm helps stabilize auditory processing and block out intruding sounds. This may explain why some autistic children use commercial jingles as an attempt to communicate. The pairing of a visual cue and a sung slogan makes a rhythmic and visual impression” (Grandin, 2006). Many people look over the fact that music can increase social participation. When comparing and contrasting the information I found, I would recommend trying music therapy because there is more evidence that supports the use of music therapy to increase social participation than not and who does not like to sing a few Disney songs anyway?

References:

Weeks, K. (2015). Vowels–Sonic Gems of Emotion for Social Communication: Practical Singing Strategies for Non-Musician Teachers with Developmentally Diverse Young Children. Early Childhood Education Journal, 43(6), 515-522.

Simpson, K., & Keen, D. (2011). Music Interventions for Children with Autism: Narrative Review of the Literature. Journal Of Autism And Developmental Disorders, 41(11), 1507-1514.

What Is Autism? (2012, May 30). Retrieved February 20, 2018, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism

Grandin, T., & Sacks, O. (2006). Thinking in pictures: and other reports from my life with autism. New York: Vintage Books.

Thompson, G. A., McFerran, K. S., & Gold, C. (2014). Family-centred music therapy to promote social engagement in young children with severe autism spectrum disorder: a randomized controlled study. Child: Care, Health & Development, 40(6), 840-852

By: J Cornelius

Some physicians to date still advise their patients that have “Diverticulosis“ to stay away from nuts,seeds, and popcorn as it can cause a flare up known as “Diverticulitis” (Prasad,  Ewigman, & Hickner, 2009).

Diverticulosis is a condition of the colon where small, bulging pouches develop. These pouches are thought to develop from bowel straining or in other terms- being constipated. The pressure from pushing causes the walls of the colonl to weaken over time. Eating a diet low in fiber can increase the risk of constipation. Most people who have diverticulosis do not have any symptoms until a flare up happens (diverticulitis). It is thought that when tiny food particles or stool gets trapped in the pouches, it can cause inflammation and an infection which is known as diverticulitis.

Symptoms of diverticulitis include:

• Pain, which may be constant and persist for several days. Pain is usually felt in the lower left side of the abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever
• Abdominal tenderness.
• Constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea.

(mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diverticulitis/symptoms-causes)

According to patients with diverticulosis, they are frequently advised to avoid nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds to reduce complications (Strate et al., 2008). Let’s see what a dietitian, nutritionist, and physician have to say in the videos below.

Myth- Nuts, seeds, and popcorn can get stuck in the pouches and cause a flare up known as diverticulitis.

Fact- No scientific studies have proved that this is a cause of diverticulitis. A study that was performed with people who had a high intake of nuts and popcorn was done and no association was seen between the two (Clinical digest, 2008).  Conversely, it is shown that high fiber diets help with diverticulosis and foods such as nuts contain large amounts of fiber. Nuts have many health benefits and we now know there is no reason for people at risk of diverticulitis to avoid them. Below is a list of foods rich in fiber!

By: MaxiuB

Fruits

• Raspberries
• Pear, with skin
• Apple, with skin
• Banana
• Orange
• Strawberries
• Dried figs
• Raisins

By: Marco Verch

Grains, cereal, and pasta

• Whole wheat pastas
• Barley
• Bran
• Oatmeal
• Popcorn, air-popped
• Brown rice
• Whole wheat/Rye bread

By: Mariya Chorna

Legumes, nuts and seeds

• Split peas
• Lentils
• Beans
• Nuts

By: Frann Leach

Vegetables

• Artichoke
• Green peas
• Broccoli
• Turnip greens
• Brussels sprouts
• Sweet corn
• Potato, with skin
• Tomato paste
• Carrots

Most importantly, always remember to maintain a diet high in fiber and drink lots of water to prevent constipation! Moderation is key with food consumption always.

Eat away!

By: Peter Trimming

References

Clinical digest. Nuts and popcorn safe for people with diverticular disease. (2008). Nursing Standard, 23(8), 15.

Prasad, S., Ewigman, B., & Hickner, J. (2009). Let them eat nuts—this snack is safe for diverticulosis patients. Journal of Family Practice, 58(2), 82-84.

Strate, L. L., Liu, Y. L., Syngal, S., Aldoori, W. H., & Giovannucci, E. L. (2008). Nut, corn and popcorn consumption and the incidence of diverticular disease. JAMA : The Journal of the American Medical Association, 300(8), 907–914. http://doi.org/10.1001/jama.300.8.907

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diverticulitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371758