Posts Tagged ‘irritation’

What You Don't Know About NSAID Drugs Could Kill You

Thursday, September 30th, 2010

Cardiovascular
Some treatments of non steroidal anti inflammatory (NSAID) drugs can help prevent the occurrence of stroke and heart attack in people who are more at risk. For example, many people get relief from the blood thinning effects of a low dose aspirin regimen. However, most other NSAID drugs besides aspirin can increase blood pressure. When using drugs like this, be sure to not exceed the recommended dosage as it can increase your risk for cardiovascular events.

Gastro-Intestinal
NSAIDs can eliminate substances in the GI system that protect the lining of the digestive tract. This, combined with the acidity of many NSAIDs can cause irritation, and potential bleeding. Nearly 20% of all people who regularly take NSAIDs experience some form of gastro-intestinal irritation. Unfortunately, this often leads to ulcers in the stomach, esophagus, or duodenum (part of the small intestine).

Liver disease
Liver damage from NSAIDs are rare, and usually occur in those who are already suffering from some form of liver disease. However, studies have shown that certain drugs can increase the level of liver enzymes that circulate through the blood stream. If your doctor has determined that there may be an increase in these enzymes, stop using NSAIDs right away. These enzyme levels will usually decrease after you stop.

Asthma
Over 20% of adults already suffering from asthma say that the symptoms get worse when they take aspirin. Some cases have even been reported of aspirin causing respiratory problems and difficulty breathing in people without asthma. These symptoms are highest among those wh also have had nasal polyps or recurring bouts with sinusitis.

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Debunking Medical Mysteries

Thursday, July 29th, 2010

Staying out in the cold will give you a cold
Colds are caused by viruses, either from inhaling infected air droplets sneezed or coughed by someone infected, or by touching something that an infected person has touched and transferring it to your mouth or nose. You don’t get colds from cold air or wind, but the viruses that cause them are more active in the winter- which is why more people get them in the colder months.

Chocolate causes acne
Acne is formed when oil glands in the skin make too much of a waxy substance called sebum that can clog pores along with dead skin cells. This allows bacteria to grow and irritate the blocked pores and lead to the red, swollen appearance. Over washing can cause further inflammation too, so a good balance is key. Studies have disproved the chocolate link, though stress has been shown to cause outbreaks.

Knuckle cracking leads to arthritis
The popping sound when someone cracks their knuckles is caused by bubbles bursting in the fluid that lubricates joints. When the bones are pulled apart, the capsule containing this fluid is stretched and can “pop”. A study of 74 people who habitually cracked their knuckles and 226 people who didn’t found no difference in rates of arthritis.

Sugar makes children hyperactive
Obesity and cavities are much bigger concerns for children having too much sugar than hyperactivity. At least 12 double blind studies have been conducted that observed how children react with diets containing different levels of sugar. None of them could tell the differences between the children who had and had not consumed the most sugar.

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