For individuals who cannot walk, a mobility scooter or an ambulatory device is essential. Today, there are many types of mobility scooters, each one has different features and accessories, and even the prices vary tremendously. For the beginner who is buying a first mobility scooter, this can get all very confusing. Essentially, there are two basic types of mobility scooters- three or four wheel scooters. Both have some pros and cons. The key differences between the two are following
Better mobility: one of the distinct advantages of owning a 3-wheel mobility scooter is that they are a lot easier to maneuver in close spaces. Four-wheel mobility scooters are slightly larger and are not able to turn or maneuver easily in narrow alleys, elevators or in apartment buildings. Three wheel mobility scooters are more compact, smaller and are preferred for individuals who live in small apartments
Room for Leg. The lack of a 4th wheel offers more leg room for individuals who own a 3 wheel mobility scooter. It can be tiresome sitting on a scooter for a few hours and thus the 3 wheel scooter allows one to stretch the legs.
Compact: The majority of 3 wheel mobility scooters are small and compact. This gives the 3-wheel scooter a major advantage over the 4-wheel mobility scooter. Beside easy use in tight spaces and narrow lanes, the 3-wheel scooter is also great for use in crowded shopping malls, supermarkets and in congested alleys.
Stability: While 3 wheel mobility scooters are great, they do have one big disadvantage. Unlike a 4-wheel scooter, the 3 wheels scooters are not always stable. The stability is fine when one drives slow and along flat roads. The stability does come into play when one goes around corners, over bumps, and potholes. In addition, when someone heavy uses a 3-wheel mobility scooter, the vehicle can become unstable. In such scenarios, a 4-wheel scooter may be more appropriate
Durability: While both scooters are durable and built with solid stainless steel framework, the 4 wheel scooters are more suited for the outdoors and can be driven on all types of terrain. The 4 wheel scooters also more sturdy and can handle the environment a lot better than the 3 wheel scooters
Space: As predicted, the larger 4 wheel scooters have more room and thus can carry more weight. The latest 4 wheel scooters also have extra spaces to carry baskets both in the front and back.
Bulk: The four-wheel vehicles are significantly more bulky and bigger than the 3 wheel mobility scooters. For this reason, they may not be suitable for use in crowded places like shopping centers, plazas, or congested supermarkets
Cost: Because the 4 wheels mobility scooters are slightly bigger, they are also more expensive. There are some basic 4-wheel mobility scooters which are not expensive, but they may not have all the accessories. The basic scooters usually start at about $700 but the fancy one with gadgets and accessories can cost about $1,000-$1,300
Before you buy a mobility scooter, go and check one out; test drive it to determine if this is suited for you. Make sure it is comfortable, stable and whether it suits your living environment.
For more on mobility scooters, visit www.medexsupply.com
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
Decompressive Spinal Surgery for back pain part 2
What is Laminectomy?
Laminectomy involves removal of the entire roof (lamina) along with adjacent joint segment and ligaments over the spinal cord. This procedure is often done when the spinal stenosis is long and there is extensive narrowing.
What is laminotomy?
Laminotomy involves removal of a small piece of the lamina and ligaments on one side. Today, this procedure is often performed using a camera and a very tiny incision.
What is Foraminotomy?
Foraminotomy is removal of the bone where the nerve exits the spinal cord. It is often combined with the above two procedures and is helpful to relieve pressure from a pinched nerve.
What is laminoplasty?
Laminoplasty is a procedure done in the neck area to increase room in the spinal canal.
What is spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion may be done with any of the above procedures. When bone is removed from the back, instability can result. To prevent instability, the surgeon may fuse the back using bone grafts or metal rods. Fusion also prevents restenosis of the spinal canal from recurring.
Is spinal decompression surgery an emergency?
Unless one has cauda equina syndrome (a disorder where there is severe compression of the nerves which results in loss of bowel and bladder control), all back surgery is strictly elective.
Because there are side effects and possible complications, it is important to discuss with the surgeon what the best procedure is for your back. One should remember that no matter what type of decompressive surgery, only the symptoms are relieved. Disorders like arthritis will continue to progress.
Final Word
The overall results of spinal surgery are terrible. It is hard to meet anyone today who has had successful spine surgery. So do not rush for surgery, no matter how nice the surgeon looks or talks. Spine surgery is big business for the doctors. It is an expensive undertaking, is associated with many complications and there is no guarantee it will work. You do no get any refunds.
Laminectomy involves removal of the entire roof (lamina) along with adjacent joint segment and ligaments over the spinal cord. This procedure is often done when the spinal stenosis is long and there is extensive narrowing.
What is laminotomy?
Laminotomy involves removal of a small piece of the lamina and ligaments on one side. Today, this procedure is often performed using a camera and a very tiny incision.
What is Foraminotomy?
Foraminotomy is removal of the bone where the nerve exits the spinal cord. It is often combined with the above two procedures and is helpful to relieve pressure from a pinched nerve.
What is laminoplasty?
Laminoplasty is a procedure done in the neck area to increase room in the spinal canal.
What is spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion may be done with any of the above procedures. When bone is removed from the back, instability can result. To prevent instability, the surgeon may fuse the back using bone grafts or metal rods. Fusion also prevents restenosis of the spinal canal from recurring.
Is spinal decompression surgery an emergency?
Unless one has cauda equina syndrome (a disorder where there is severe compression of the nerves which results in loss of bowel and bladder control), all back surgery is strictly elective.
Because there are side effects and possible complications, it is important to discuss with the surgeon what the best procedure is for your back. One should remember that no matter what type of decompressive surgery, only the symptoms are relieved. Disorders like arthritis will continue to progress.
Final Word
The overall results of spinal surgery are terrible. It is hard to meet anyone today who has had successful spine surgery. So do not rush for surgery, no matter how nice the surgeon looks or talks. Spine surgery is big business for the doctors. It is an expensive undertaking, is associated with many complications and there is no guarantee it will work. You do no get any refunds.
Decompressive Spinal Surgery for back pain
What is spinal decompression?
This is a big word but is very simple to explain. When people have back pain, the nerve in the center of the spinal cord gets compressed or pinched. The compression may be from bone, ligament, tumor, or any type of mass. When the nerve is pinched, it causes pain. Spinal decompression means relieving the pressure in the joint space so that the nerve is no longer pinched
What is classic treatment of back pain?
Back or neck pain are common problems in society. In most cases, it is a nerve that is pinched that is causing the pain. Sometimes besides pain, one may also have numbness or tingling sensations.
The traditional treatment of back pain is rest and pain control for a few days and most individuals recover in 4-6 weeks. However, there are a number of patients who fail to improve. These individuals then go through a wide range of therapies including physical therapy, exercise, traction, massage, acupuncture, yoga, praying, and when all that fails, some undergo surgery.
IS back surgery essentially spinal decompression?
Yes, in simple all surgery for back pain is designed to remove pressure from the nerves. However, surgery is not the only way to remove compression from the disc joints. There are also various traction devices that do the same thing.
Can spinal decompression surgery be performed only on the back?
No, spinal decompression surgery can be performed anywhere along the spine when there is evidence of a pinched nerve. The two most common areas are the neck and lower back
How is the surgery done?
Under general anesthesia, a small incision is made over the mid spine. The lamina (the bone that covers top of the spinal canal) is removed. This allows the nerves more freedom and removes the compression.
There are several types of decompressive spinal procedures but the principle is the same- remove pressure off the nerves.
This is a big word but is very simple to explain. When people have back pain, the nerve in the center of the spinal cord gets compressed or pinched. The compression may be from bone, ligament, tumor, or any type of mass. When the nerve is pinched, it causes pain. Spinal decompression means relieving the pressure in the joint space so that the nerve is no longer pinched
What is classic treatment of back pain?
Back or neck pain are common problems in society. In most cases, it is a nerve that is pinched that is causing the pain. Sometimes besides pain, one may also have numbness or tingling sensations.
The traditional treatment of back pain is rest and pain control for a few days and most individuals recover in 4-6 weeks. However, there are a number of patients who fail to improve. These individuals then go through a wide range of therapies including physical therapy, exercise, traction, massage, acupuncture, yoga, praying, and when all that fails, some undergo surgery.
IS back surgery essentially spinal decompression?
Yes, in simple all surgery for back pain is designed to remove pressure from the nerves. However, surgery is not the only way to remove compression from the disc joints. There are also various traction devices that do the same thing.
Can spinal decompression surgery be performed only on the back?
No, spinal decompression surgery can be performed anywhere along the spine when there is evidence of a pinched nerve. The two most common areas are the neck and lower back
How is the surgery done?
Under general anesthesia, a small incision is made over the mid spine. The lamina (the bone that covers top of the spinal canal) is removed. This allows the nerves more freedom and removes the compression.
There are several types of decompressive spinal procedures but the principle is the same- remove pressure off the nerves.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Spinal injections for back pain Part 2
Epidural injections are done as outpatients and either performed by an anesthesiologist or a physician who is familiar with this procedure. The technique is pretty simple. One lies down on a flat table with the knees folded towards the chest. This helps open up the disc spaces and then the needle is guided into the epidural space. When done well, it is a relatively painless procedure. Sometimes, there may be difficult guiding the needle into the epidural space and one may to perform the injection under X ray guidance.
Once the steroid is injected, it migrates to where the nerve roots are located and starts to work by decreasing inflammation. The pain relief is gradual and not immediate.
Epidural injections also have a fair share of side effects that include:
- Back pain at injection site. The pain is mild in
most cases and resolves in a few days. However,
some individual have prolonged pain at the injection
site.
- Very rarely some individuals may develop nausea,
vomiting or abdominal cramps. These side effects
resolve in a day or two.
- Some individuals do develop light-headedness and
some feel dizzy. Some individuals do complain of a
headache which may last anywhere from a few days to
several weeks.
When many epidural steroidal injections are performed, the following complications may occur:
- Loss of bone density, leading to osteoporosis
and possible bone fractures
- Easy bruising of skin
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Increased susceptibility to injections because of
suppression of the body’s immune system
The most common drug used for epidural injections is a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are potent ant inflammatory agents, reduce inflammation, and nerve irritation. While they do relieve pain, the injections do not work in everyone with back pain. Even the degree of pain relief is not the same in all individuals
Clinical data indicate that less than 10-30 percent of individuals get decent pain relief. The pain relief only lasts from a few weeks to a few months. Epidural injections for back pain are not curative.
The cost of an epidural steroidal injection varies but generally is more than $2000. The cost is often not covered by many medical insurance health carriers.
Once the steroid is injected, it migrates to where the nerve roots are located and starts to work by decreasing inflammation. The pain relief is gradual and not immediate.
Epidural injections also have a fair share of side effects that include:
- Back pain at injection site. The pain is mild in
most cases and resolves in a few days. However,
some individual have prolonged pain at the injection
site.
- Very rarely some individuals may develop nausea,
vomiting or abdominal cramps. These side effects
resolve in a day or two.
- Some individuals do develop light-headedness and
some feel dizzy. Some individuals do complain of a
headache which may last anywhere from a few days to
several weeks.
When many epidural steroidal injections are performed, the following complications may occur:
- Loss of bone density, leading to osteoporosis
and possible bone fractures
- Easy bruising of skin
- Decreased muscle mass and strength
- Increased susceptibility to injections because of
suppression of the body’s immune system
The most common drug used for epidural injections is a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are potent ant inflammatory agents, reduce inflammation, and nerve irritation. While they do relieve pain, the injections do not work in everyone with back pain. Even the degree of pain relief is not the same in all individuals
Clinical data indicate that less than 10-30 percent of individuals get decent pain relief. The pain relief only lasts from a few weeks to a few months. Epidural injections for back pain are not curative.
The cost of an epidural steroidal injection varies but generally is more than $2000. The cost is often not covered by many medical insurance health carriers.
Spinal injections for back pain
All over the country, doctors have set up pain clinics offering to give injections to anyone and everyone with pain. Treatment of back pain is a lucrative business and many physicians have exploited this aspect of medicine.
Many people with back pain remain disabled and have a very poor quality of life. There are many individuals with back pain who have gone through the entire gamut of surgery, physical therapy, acupuncture, massage and so on and nothing has worked. For these individuals, the only other treatment is to get pain relief. One of the ways to relieve pain is with injections. The injections are made in the spine with steroids. Anesthesiologists, orthopedic surgeons, rheumatologists, and many other physicians have set up clinics to provide pain relief to the individuals suffering from back pain.
For the consumer, it has to be understood that epidural injections are not the first treatment of choice. One has to try oral pain pills before jumping the gun.
Do epidural injections relieve back pain?
Well, not everyone finds relief from epidural injections and the pain relief is not immediate. Less than 10-20 percent of people with back pain have any significant pain relief. The pain relief is never complete and not permanent. The pain relief is noticed at around 3-4 weeks and lasts for a few months only. Most individuals can only have 2-3 injections of steroids per year. Repeated uses of steroids can lead to bone softening, ulcers and weight gain.
Prior to the epidural injections, one has to have an MRI or CT scan of the back. These radiological studies help identify location of the problem. However, most physicians who perform epidural injections generally go ahead and inject irrespective of the findings.
Many people with back pain remain disabled and have a very poor quality of life. There are many individuals with back pain who have gone through the entire gamut of surgery, physical therapy, acupuncture, massage and so on and nothing has worked. For these individuals, the only other treatment is to get pain relief. One of the ways to relieve pain is with injections. The injections are made in the spine with steroids. Anesthesiologists, orthopedic surgeons, rheumatologists, and many other physicians have set up clinics to provide pain relief to the individuals suffering from back pain.
For the consumer, it has to be understood that epidural injections are not the first treatment of choice. One has to try oral pain pills before jumping the gun.
Do epidural injections relieve back pain?
Well, not everyone finds relief from epidural injections and the pain relief is not immediate. Less than 10-20 percent of people with back pain have any significant pain relief. The pain relief is never complete and not permanent. The pain relief is noticed at around 3-4 weeks and lasts for a few months only. Most individuals can only have 2-3 injections of steroids per year. Repeated uses of steroids can lead to bone softening, ulcers and weight gain.
Prior to the epidural injections, one has to have an MRI or CT scan of the back. These radiological studies help identify location of the problem. However, most physicians who perform epidural injections generally go ahead and inject irrespective of the findings.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke” Part 8
Tobacco Control
Unlike the rigid anti smoking activities, most health care worker agree that substituting smokeless tobacco for smoking is a wise risk-reduction strategy because it reduces all smoking-related risks and introduces no new risks. There is some who agree that an oral cavity cancer does occur after use of both smoking and smokeless tobacco-but now we are relegated to choosing which is the lesser evil.
Concerned physicians and dentists understand that it is their moral and ethical obligation to help patients make informed lifestyle choices, all of which involve benefits and risks. Providing information about an alternative to smoking that is significantly more safer is not only consistent with the highest standards of medical ethics, it is required of them.
The past few decades have brought ever more assertive public health campaigns against cigarette smoking. Numerous well-funded public and private agencies has set as its goal a reduction in the epidemic of cigarette smoking. The organization’s influence has resulted in pervasive health warnings, ever more intensive quit-smoking programs, and recently the social ostracism of smokers and the industry that supplies them. Yet many Americans continue to smoke, and the number of women starting to smoke is on the rise.
Conclusion
Despite what the Swedes and the Tobacco industry claims, the risk of oral cancer is increased if you use smokeless tobacco products. These cancers of the oral cavity may involve the tongue, cheeks, lips, gums and jaw. The treatment of all oral cancer is surgery and the surgery is no walk in the park. It is a major undertaking and results in severe disfiguring. The majority of patients are completely disabled after surgery- that is if they leave long enough. The people who use smokeless tobacco do not die of gum and dental disease. The majority die of oral cancer.
There is no easy answer to curb the smoking epidemic. There are no magical portions or cures to help one stop smoking. The smoking industry is a billionaire industry which also is an important economic powerhouse. Despite all the health risks and complications of smoking, this habit is universal and consumes a lot of health care dollars. Everyone claims as to what is the best remedy but so far none is effective. It's never too late to quit using tobaccos products. There may not be fire with the use of smokeless tobacco products, but one can rest assured the potential to burn one’s mouth and body is enormous. The only way to stop smoking is never to start it in the first place.
Unlike the rigid anti smoking activities, most health care worker agree that substituting smokeless tobacco for smoking is a wise risk-reduction strategy because it reduces all smoking-related risks and introduces no new risks. There is some who agree that an oral cavity cancer does occur after use of both smoking and smokeless tobacco-but now we are relegated to choosing which is the lesser evil.
Concerned physicians and dentists understand that it is their moral and ethical obligation to help patients make informed lifestyle choices, all of which involve benefits and risks. Providing information about an alternative to smoking that is significantly more safer is not only consistent with the highest standards of medical ethics, it is required of them.
The past few decades have brought ever more assertive public health campaigns against cigarette smoking. Numerous well-funded public and private agencies has set as its goal a reduction in the epidemic of cigarette smoking. The organization’s influence has resulted in pervasive health warnings, ever more intensive quit-smoking programs, and recently the social ostracism of smokers and the industry that supplies them. Yet many Americans continue to smoke, and the number of women starting to smoke is on the rise.
Conclusion
Despite what the Swedes and the Tobacco industry claims, the risk of oral cancer is increased if you use smokeless tobacco products. These cancers of the oral cavity may involve the tongue, cheeks, lips, gums and jaw. The treatment of all oral cancer is surgery and the surgery is no walk in the park. It is a major undertaking and results in severe disfiguring. The majority of patients are completely disabled after surgery- that is if they leave long enough. The people who use smokeless tobacco do not die of gum and dental disease. The majority die of oral cancer.
There is no easy answer to curb the smoking epidemic. There are no magical portions or cures to help one stop smoking. The smoking industry is a billionaire industry which also is an important economic powerhouse. Despite all the health risks and complications of smoking, this habit is universal and consumes a lot of health care dollars. Everyone claims as to what is the best remedy but so far none is effective. It's never too late to quit using tobaccos products. There may not be fire with the use of smokeless tobacco products, but one can rest assured the potential to burn one’s mouth and body is enormous. The only way to stop smoking is never to start it in the first place.
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke” Part 7
Smokers versus smokeless tobacco
When smokeless tobacco products are compared to smokers, there are definite benefits for the uses of the former drugs. The number of deaths from smoking is almost 70 times higher than the number from smokeless tobacco use. In terms of life expectancy, the smokeless-tobacco user loses only about 2 weeks on average, compared with the eight years lost by the smoker.
Another major health benefit: smokers who switch to smokeless tobacco produce no passive smoke to harm others. The American Heart Association estimates that 40,000 Americans die annually from diseases related to second-hand smoke. No one dies from the secondary effects of smokeless tobacco use. Thus, this proposal could be recommended solely on the basis of lives saved through the elimination of the effects of passive smoking.
These published facts are uncontested. Today a transition to smokeless tobacco is not merely a theoretical proposition based strategy of smoking cessation; it has already become accepted as an alternate to smoking tobacco in many States.
Has the government strategy of getting smoker to switch worked? Data from the CDC does indicate that more than 1.5 million smokers have used smokeless tobacco to quit smoking. This transition has been possible because the smokeless products also contain nicotine- which is more effective transferred to the body. In addition, the newer smokeless products have been designed in various flavors, packages and resemble candy or chewing gum. Most industry based data reveals that long terms smokers have made a successful transition to these smokeless products and the relapse has been minimal. With the newer variety of smokeless tobacco products, the outmoded and disgusting habit of spitting the smokeless products is only for the history books.
Industry based data reveal that once smokers switch over to the smokeless products, they regain the normal life expectancy. The risk of lung and heart disease is also decreased. The companies mention that switching to smokeless tobaccos is associated with giant gains in health benefits.
One always has to be aware that a lot of studies are sponsored by the companies who make these products and unfortunately the articles/newsletters are almost always written by health care workers who have genuine interest in these companies. So the current scientific data on health benefits of switching should always be taken in with a grain of salt.
When smokeless tobacco products are compared to smokers, there are definite benefits for the uses of the former drugs. The number of deaths from smoking is almost 70 times higher than the number from smokeless tobacco use. In terms of life expectancy, the smokeless-tobacco user loses only about 2 weeks on average, compared with the eight years lost by the smoker.
Another major health benefit: smokers who switch to smokeless tobacco produce no passive smoke to harm others. The American Heart Association estimates that 40,000 Americans die annually from diseases related to second-hand smoke. No one dies from the secondary effects of smokeless tobacco use. Thus, this proposal could be recommended solely on the basis of lives saved through the elimination of the effects of passive smoking.
These published facts are uncontested. Today a transition to smokeless tobacco is not merely a theoretical proposition based strategy of smoking cessation; it has already become accepted as an alternate to smoking tobacco in many States.
Has the government strategy of getting smoker to switch worked? Data from the CDC does indicate that more than 1.5 million smokers have used smokeless tobacco to quit smoking. This transition has been possible because the smokeless products also contain nicotine- which is more effective transferred to the body. In addition, the newer smokeless products have been designed in various flavors, packages and resemble candy or chewing gum. Most industry based data reveals that long terms smokers have made a successful transition to these smokeless products and the relapse has been minimal. With the newer variety of smokeless tobacco products, the outmoded and disgusting habit of spitting the smokeless products is only for the history books.
Industry based data reveal that once smokers switch over to the smokeless products, they regain the normal life expectancy. The risk of lung and heart disease is also decreased. The companies mention that switching to smokeless tobaccos is associated with giant gains in health benefits.
One always has to be aware that a lot of studies are sponsored by the companies who make these products and unfortunately the articles/newsletters are almost always written by health care workers who have genuine interest in these companies. So the current scientific data on health benefits of switching should always be taken in with a grain of salt.
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke” Part 6
Chemicals in Smokeless Tobacco
Oral smokeless tobacco contains numerous carcinogens, including polonium 210, tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines, volatile aldehydes, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. An analysis of the nicotine content of 11 brands of popular smokeless tobacco products found that moist snuff has the highest nicotine content, whereas loose-leaf chewing tobacco has the lowest nicotine content. In addition, a lot of other chemicals including heavy metals are found in these products. These metals include cadmium, zinc and polonium. These heavy metals are thought to be leached into the products from insecticides and agricultural sprays.
Pure nicotine and smokeless tobacco extract (STE) have been compared for their oxidative stress actions by measuring the generation of reactive oxygen species. Pure nicotine has been found to be less toxic than STE with equivalent amounts of nicotine.
Addiction potential
There is no doubt that smokeless tobacco is just as addictive as smoking. Both products contain nicotine which is the additive agent. Despite the fact that the smokeless products are safer than cigarettes, they are still addictive. Just as with smoking, withdrawal from chewing tobacco causes signs and symptoms such as intense cravings, increased appetite, irritability and depressed moods.
People who use chewing tobacco eventually develop a tolerance for nicotine and need more tobacco to feel the effects of the nicotine. Some people switch to brands with more nicotine and tend to use chewing tobacco more frequently the longer they've been using smokeless products.
Government regulations and taxation on cigarettes has led to more individual turning to the smokeless products. Whether these products are less harmful than their counterparts, will only be known in the near future
Oral smokeless tobacco contains numerous carcinogens, including polonium 210, tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines, volatile aldehydes, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. An analysis of the nicotine content of 11 brands of popular smokeless tobacco products found that moist snuff has the highest nicotine content, whereas loose-leaf chewing tobacco has the lowest nicotine content. In addition, a lot of other chemicals including heavy metals are found in these products. These metals include cadmium, zinc and polonium. These heavy metals are thought to be leached into the products from insecticides and agricultural sprays.
Pure nicotine and smokeless tobacco extract (STE) have been compared for their oxidative stress actions by measuring the generation of reactive oxygen species. Pure nicotine has been found to be less toxic than STE with equivalent amounts of nicotine.
Addiction potential
There is no doubt that smokeless tobacco is just as addictive as smoking. Both products contain nicotine which is the additive agent. Despite the fact that the smokeless products are safer than cigarettes, they are still addictive. Just as with smoking, withdrawal from chewing tobacco causes signs and symptoms such as intense cravings, increased appetite, irritability and depressed moods.
People who use chewing tobacco eventually develop a tolerance for nicotine and need more tobacco to feel the effects of the nicotine. Some people switch to brands with more nicotine and tend to use chewing tobacco more frequently the longer they've been using smokeless products.
Government regulations and taxation on cigarettes has led to more individual turning to the smokeless products. Whether these products are less harmful than their counterparts, will only be known in the near future
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke” Part 5
Smokeless tobacco that is placed in the oral cavity also causes direct damage to the mouth (e.g., gingivitis, periodontal recession) and oral soft tissue. The risk to the user arising from use of a smokeless tobacco product varies by product and why some individuals are prone to the complications remains unknown. This is particularly so when it comes to heart complications of smokeless tobacco. All agree that the majority of individuals who use smokeless tobacco have a lesser incidence of heart problems. Why not everyone remains a mystery but is probably related to presence of other risk factors.
The use of smokeless tobacco is associated with a spectrum of oral cavity lesions, including leukoplakia, speckled leukoplakia, erythroplasia, tobacco-associated keratosis, carcinoma in situ, verrucous carcinoma, and invasive squamous cell carcinoma. The benign tobacco-related lesions can change over time and may become cancerous.
Snuff and chewing tobacco have also been associated with an increased risk for oral cancer. A single study of females in the southern United States revealed that chronic users of snuff were estimated to have a four times greater risk of developing oral cancer. In addition, a significant number of oral cancers in smokeless tobacco users developed a cancer at the site where the tobaccos was placed. However, the use of smokeless tobacco appears to be associated with a much lower cancer risk than that associated with smoked tobacco. Despite all the studies showing an increase in oral cancer with smokeless products, there is no direct correlation between use and cancer. In the US, the highest use of smokeless tobacco is in West Virginia, but the oral cancer rates are below the national average.
Recent studies from Scandinavia have suggested that the use of Swedish snuff (which is non-fermented and has lower nitrosamine levels) is not associated with an increased risk for oral cancer
Any patient with an oral lesion in the mouth must be seen by a doctor. Biopsy is mandatory for any persistent red lesion without an obvious cause. Treatment depends on the results of a histologic examination. Avoidance of tobacco and alcohol is of utmost importance.
The American Cancer Society recommends a cancer-related check-up annually and appropriate counseling should be offered to those persons who smoke cigarettes, pipes, or cigars, those who use chewing tobacco or snuff, and those who demonstrate evidence of alcohol abuse." The USPHSTF document also notes that "...both the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute of Dental Research support efforts to promote the early detection of oral cancers in individuals who use tobacco products during routine dental examinations
The use of smokeless tobacco is associated with a spectrum of oral cavity lesions, including leukoplakia, speckled leukoplakia, erythroplasia, tobacco-associated keratosis, carcinoma in situ, verrucous carcinoma, and invasive squamous cell carcinoma. The benign tobacco-related lesions can change over time and may become cancerous.
Snuff and chewing tobacco have also been associated with an increased risk for oral cancer. A single study of females in the southern United States revealed that chronic users of snuff were estimated to have a four times greater risk of developing oral cancer. In addition, a significant number of oral cancers in smokeless tobacco users developed a cancer at the site where the tobaccos was placed. However, the use of smokeless tobacco appears to be associated with a much lower cancer risk than that associated with smoked tobacco. Despite all the studies showing an increase in oral cancer with smokeless products, there is no direct correlation between use and cancer. In the US, the highest use of smokeless tobacco is in West Virginia, but the oral cancer rates are below the national average.
Recent studies from Scandinavia have suggested that the use of Swedish snuff (which is non-fermented and has lower nitrosamine levels) is not associated with an increased risk for oral cancer
Any patient with an oral lesion in the mouth must be seen by a doctor. Biopsy is mandatory for any persistent red lesion without an obvious cause. Treatment depends on the results of a histologic examination. Avoidance of tobacco and alcohol is of utmost importance.
The American Cancer Society recommends a cancer-related check-up annually and appropriate counseling should be offered to those persons who smoke cigarettes, pipes, or cigars, those who use chewing tobacco or snuff, and those who demonstrate evidence of alcohol abuse." The USPHSTF document also notes that "...both the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute of Dental Research support efforts to promote the early detection of oral cancers in individuals who use tobacco products during routine dental examinations
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke” Part 4
Does cancer occur with smokeless tobacco
Unlike cigarette smoking, it is still not known completely known whether smokeless tobacco can cause cancer of the oral cavity. Numerous studies have been done and the results are conflicting. Some researchers claim that smokeless tobacco products have a very low risk for causing cancer of the oral cavity and that the products could be used as a means to stop smoking. If the data show that these products are harmless, it really makes one wonder why the government would make it mandatory for warning signs to be placed on all smokeless tobacco products.
Health Hazard of Smokeless Tobacco
For decades there had been a big debate about the association of oral cavity cancer with the use of smokeless tobacco products. Smokeless tobacco is not harmless. There is a lot of evidence that smokeless tobacco products used in SE Asia and in the United States cause oral cancer. Today, all studies have confirmed that Oral cancer is 4 times more likely to occur in users of smokeless tobacco than in those who do not use tobacco products. The annual incidence of oral cancer is estimated at 26 cases per 100,000 users of smokeless tobacco. Today, the incidence of oral cancer in the United States is estimated to be 30,000 cases per year, with an estimated 7800 deaths from oral cancer in 2001.
The survival rates for individual who develop oral cavity cancers is variable and dependent on the size of the rumor, time of diagnosis, location of the lesion and whether the tumor has spread to the adjacent neck lymph nodes. For most individuals who have an oral cavity cancer, at 5 years less than 35% are alive. Other studies do show that a significant number of individual who have used smokeless tobacco products have an increased risk of heart disease and also breast cancer
Unlike cigarette smoking, it is still not known completely known whether smokeless tobacco can cause cancer of the oral cavity. Numerous studies have been done and the results are conflicting. Some researchers claim that smokeless tobacco products have a very low risk for causing cancer of the oral cavity and that the products could be used as a means to stop smoking. If the data show that these products are harmless, it really makes one wonder why the government would make it mandatory for warning signs to be placed on all smokeless tobacco products.
Health Hazard of Smokeless Tobacco
For decades there had been a big debate about the association of oral cavity cancer with the use of smokeless tobacco products. Smokeless tobacco is not harmless. There is a lot of evidence that smokeless tobacco products used in SE Asia and in the United States cause oral cancer. Today, all studies have confirmed that Oral cancer is 4 times more likely to occur in users of smokeless tobacco than in those who do not use tobacco products. The annual incidence of oral cancer is estimated at 26 cases per 100,000 users of smokeless tobacco. Today, the incidence of oral cancer in the United States is estimated to be 30,000 cases per year, with an estimated 7800 deaths from oral cancer in 2001.
The survival rates for individual who develop oral cavity cancers is variable and dependent on the size of the rumor, time of diagnosis, location of the lesion and whether the tumor has spread to the adjacent neck lymph nodes. For most individuals who have an oral cavity cancer, at 5 years less than 35% are alive. Other studies do show that a significant number of individual who have used smokeless tobacco products have an increased risk of heart disease and also breast cancer
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke” Part 3
Types of smokeless tobacco
Dipping tobacco (also known as American moist snuff or spit tobacco) is a form of smokeless tobacco. Unlike chewing tobacco, Dip is 'pinched' out of the tin, and placed between the lower or upper lip and gums. The dip then stimulates saliva secretion and the nicotine in the tobacco is transferred by the saliva to the body. The effects of nicotine take about 20-30 minutes to take effect.
The dip always causing an excess of salivation. The saliva is best spit out because swallowing can cause a lot of irritation to the back of the throat, nausea and vomiting. There are a few long terms users who are able to swallow this excess saliva without any undue problems.
With cosmesis of an importance to the tobacco industry, user friendly products have been devised. Gone are the days when gobs of spit were common after use. The current day products come in all flavors and smells and the majority do not cause excess spit. One more tactic by the industry to lure more users.
Nicotine and Chemicals in Smokeless tobacco
Smokeless tobacco contains numerous chemicals with the potential of causing cancer. Despite all industry claims, nicotine is found in high concentration in all smokeless products and moist snuff has the highest nicotine content, whereas loose-leaf chewing tobacco has the lowest nicotine content. Numerous studies have shown that twice as much nicotine per dose from smokeless tobacco is absorbed per dose from smokeless tobacco than cigarettes. The nicotine which is ingested from the mouth stays longer in the body compared to smoking.
Exactly what the other additives are in smokeless tobacco are hard to know because there are so many products. These smokeless tobacco products are made in many different countries by many different companies with little regulation of their content. The additives, their composition, dose and purity remain unknown.
Dipping tobacco (also known as American moist snuff or spit tobacco) is a form of smokeless tobacco. Unlike chewing tobacco, Dip is 'pinched' out of the tin, and placed between the lower or upper lip and gums. The dip then stimulates saliva secretion and the nicotine in the tobacco is transferred by the saliva to the body. The effects of nicotine take about 20-30 minutes to take effect.
The dip always causing an excess of salivation. The saliva is best spit out because swallowing can cause a lot of irritation to the back of the throat, nausea and vomiting. There are a few long terms users who are able to swallow this excess saliva without any undue problems.
With cosmesis of an importance to the tobacco industry, user friendly products have been devised. Gone are the days when gobs of spit were common after use. The current day products come in all flavors and smells and the majority do not cause excess spit. One more tactic by the industry to lure more users.
Nicotine and Chemicals in Smokeless tobacco
Smokeless tobacco contains numerous chemicals with the potential of causing cancer. Despite all industry claims, nicotine is found in high concentration in all smokeless products and moist snuff has the highest nicotine content, whereas loose-leaf chewing tobacco has the lowest nicotine content. Numerous studies have shown that twice as much nicotine per dose from smokeless tobacco is absorbed per dose from smokeless tobacco than cigarettes. The nicotine which is ingested from the mouth stays longer in the body compared to smoking.
Exactly what the other additives are in smokeless tobacco are hard to know because there are so many products. These smokeless tobacco products are made in many different countries by many different companies with little regulation of their content. The additives, their composition, dose and purity remain unknown.
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke” Part 2
Only in the last 2 decades has there been a major thrust to reduce the morbidity and mortality of smoking.
Faced with increasing smoking bans and declining cigarette consumption in North America, the tobacco industry has been trying to discover newer smokeless tobacco products. The products have already initiated a lot of critic. The tobacco industry claims that these products enable one to stop smoking and are much safer- the tobacco antagonists on the other claim that these products are a mere alternative to smoking and just as addictive. Critics also claim that these products are attracting an increasing number of younger adults, many who have never smoked before. None of the companies is claiming that the new products are safer than cigarettes.
It is estimated that close to 10-12 million individuals in the USA use smokeless tobacco products. The term smokeless tobacco is used to define non smoking products such as dip, plug, chew, snuff or spit tobacco, refers to both chewing tobacco (coarse or fine cut). Snuff may be used in a dry form, which is inhaled nasally, or in the more commonly used moist form, which is placed in the mouth.
Over the past 2 decades, the popularity of oral smokeless products has rapidly especially among white males. Data from the US centers for disease control and prevention indicate that use of smokeless tobacco products is widespread across the nation and the percentage of male high school students users is increasing annually. The highest prevalence of smokeless tobacco use is in West Virginia, Arizona and Wyoming. The most surprising result of the data was that smokeless tobaccos use among older women was also increasing in most US states.
Current data indicates that the use of smokeless tobacco products begins relatively early in life for most users. Surveys indicate that children and high school students have experimented with these products as early as age 9. The majority of users claim to have started using these products at an early age and continue throughout life.
Smokeless tobacco goes by numerous synonym- smokeless tobacco, spit tobacco, chew, snuff, pinch, plug or dip — but whatever it is called it sure is not harmless. If one is led to believe all what the tobacco industry claims, then switch from cigarettes to smokeless tobacco is a godsend. However, be warned this is exactly what the tobacco industry claimed about cigarette 50 years ago. All Tobacco products are harmful; irrespective whether one inhales them, chews them or swallows them.
Faced with increasing smoking bans and declining cigarette consumption in North America, the tobacco industry has been trying to discover newer smokeless tobacco products. The products have already initiated a lot of critic. The tobacco industry claims that these products enable one to stop smoking and are much safer- the tobacco antagonists on the other claim that these products are a mere alternative to smoking and just as addictive. Critics also claim that these products are attracting an increasing number of younger adults, many who have never smoked before. None of the companies is claiming that the new products are safer than cigarettes.
It is estimated that close to 10-12 million individuals in the USA use smokeless tobacco products. The term smokeless tobacco is used to define non smoking products such as dip, plug, chew, snuff or spit tobacco, refers to both chewing tobacco (coarse or fine cut). Snuff may be used in a dry form, which is inhaled nasally, or in the more commonly used moist form, which is placed in the mouth.
Over the past 2 decades, the popularity of oral smokeless products has rapidly especially among white males. Data from the US centers for disease control and prevention indicate that use of smokeless tobacco products is widespread across the nation and the percentage of male high school students users is increasing annually. The highest prevalence of smokeless tobacco use is in West Virginia, Arizona and Wyoming. The most surprising result of the data was that smokeless tobaccos use among older women was also increasing in most US states.
Current data indicates that the use of smokeless tobacco products begins relatively early in life for most users. Surveys indicate that children and high school students have experimented with these products as early as age 9. The majority of users claim to have started using these products at an early age and continue throughout life.
Smokeless tobacco goes by numerous synonym- smokeless tobacco, spit tobacco, chew, snuff, pinch, plug or dip — but whatever it is called it sure is not harmless. If one is led to believe all what the tobacco industry claims, then switch from cigarettes to smokeless tobacco is a godsend. However, be warned this is exactly what the tobacco industry claimed about cigarette 50 years ago. All Tobacco products are harmful; irrespective whether one inhales them, chews them or swallows them.
Smokeless Tobacco: “Can there be fire when there is no Smoke”
Some facts are indisputable. Close to 50 million Americans smoke and about half a million die each year from smoking related health complications. These health complications include heart and lung disease, including lung cancer and emphysema. In addition life expectancy in smoker is reduced by at least 8 years in comparison to non smoker. The cost of looking after the health problems is in the billions annually.
With an increased recognition of the health related problems connected to smoking, a major thrust by the pharmaceutical industry over the past 4 decades has been the search for the ultimate drug to cure smoking related addiction.
Numerous drugs have been developed over the years to help stop smoking. This industry has just become as profitable as the manufacturers of tobacco related products because none of the products work. Both the nicotine patch (in variable doses) and bupropion are recommended in treating nicotine dependence, with an additive effect when used in combination. Other medications useful in treating nicotine dependence include nicotine nasal spray inhalers; nicotine gum; herbs, nutritional supplements and non tobacco snuff products containing mint, clover, alfalfa, and flavorings.
The majority of these products contain nicotine in variable doses and may help curb the craving effect after cessation of the tobacco product. The latest drug to have shown some benefit in decreasing tobaccos dependence is bupropion. A few studies do show that it may decrease the nicotine craving; however, there are just as many studies which show no effect. The major cause of failure is relapse after a few months.
With an increased recognition of the health related problems connected to smoking, a major thrust by the pharmaceutical industry over the past 4 decades has been the search for the ultimate drug to cure smoking related addiction.
Numerous drugs have been developed over the years to help stop smoking. This industry has just become as profitable as the manufacturers of tobacco related products because none of the products work. Both the nicotine patch (in variable doses) and bupropion are recommended in treating nicotine dependence, with an additive effect when used in combination. Other medications useful in treating nicotine dependence include nicotine nasal spray inhalers; nicotine gum; herbs, nutritional supplements and non tobacco snuff products containing mint, clover, alfalfa, and flavorings.
The majority of these products contain nicotine in variable doses and may help curb the craving effect after cessation of the tobacco product. The latest drug to have shown some benefit in decreasing tobaccos dependence is bupropion. A few studies do show that it may decrease the nicotine craving; however, there are just as many studies which show no effect. The major cause of failure is relapse after a few months.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Mobility Scooters 101 Part 2
Make sure that the scooter you buy can be transported. If you use your scooter at work then you need to carry it in your car. If it is a large bulky scooter, you will have a hard time transporting it. Most of the latest designs of scooters have folding features which allow you to fold and store the scooter in the trunk of the car. For a frequent traveler, this feature is a major requirement
Get a scooter which is easy to use. The old mobility scooters had long handles and access to many parts can be difficult. Never buy a scooter without first trying it. Sit on it, ride it, and get the feel. The other feature of a scooter one needs to asses is how it operates; is it stable, can you maneuver the scooter in tight spaces and corner and can it go up an incline?
Further, for those who live in apartment, the mobility scooter must be capable of going backwards and turning in tight spaces. Always make sure the scooter is stable on all planes.
Comfort should be another feature to look for when buying a scooter. Make sure that the handlebars and seat height is adequate. Some large scooters also come with removable parts for easy transport. Most large scooters have many more features and are stable but can be difficult to store/transport. The more fancy scooters come with padded seats and many even have a back rest. The more accessories you add, the more expensive the scooter becomes.
For those who work or shop, one needs to get a scooter which can carry luggage. If you go grocery shopping, you need to the scooter to safely carry the bags. Determine what weight you can carry on the scooter. Most current scooters can carry a weight of 300-350 pounds. Some scooters even have a baggage comportment near the handlebars.
Cost: The cost is a major factor when buying a scooter. The least fancy ones cost around $600 and the more expensive one go above $1000. If you do not know what you want, go browse online and write to the reps. The last thing you should do is buy a scooter in a rush and find out that it does not have any of the above features
For more on mobility scooters, go to www.medexupply.com
Get a scooter which is easy to use. The old mobility scooters had long handles and access to many parts can be difficult. Never buy a scooter without first trying it. Sit on it, ride it, and get the feel. The other feature of a scooter one needs to asses is how it operates; is it stable, can you maneuver the scooter in tight spaces and corner and can it go up an incline?
Further, for those who live in apartment, the mobility scooter must be capable of going backwards and turning in tight spaces. Always make sure the scooter is stable on all planes.
Comfort should be another feature to look for when buying a scooter. Make sure that the handlebars and seat height is adequate. Some large scooters also come with removable parts for easy transport. Most large scooters have many more features and are stable but can be difficult to store/transport. The more fancy scooters come with padded seats and many even have a back rest. The more accessories you add, the more expensive the scooter becomes.
For those who work or shop, one needs to get a scooter which can carry luggage. If you go grocery shopping, you need to the scooter to safely carry the bags. Determine what weight you can carry on the scooter. Most current scooters can carry a weight of 300-350 pounds. Some scooters even have a baggage comportment near the handlebars.
Cost: The cost is a major factor when buying a scooter. The least fancy ones cost around $600 and the more expensive one go above $1000. If you do not know what you want, go browse online and write to the reps. The last thing you should do is buy a scooter in a rush and find out that it does not have any of the above features
For more on mobility scooters, go to www.medexupply.com
Mobility Scooters 101
Why does one need a mobility scooter?
Today, there are many individuals not only in North America but globally who have gait problems. The majority of these individuals are the elderly who are frail, have weak bones, joint disease or are simply too old to walk. These individuals need to get outside the home and for them a mobility scooter can be life saving.
What are common causes of gait problems?
There are many medical disorders which can affect an individual’s ability to walk. Some of the more common disorders that affect gait include stroke, diabetes, chronic back problems, multiple sclerosis, paraplegia (partial), severe arthritis and old age.
What are general options when one has gait problems?
There are several options for individuals who need to get around. For those who can still walk, a cane or a walker may suffice. However, there are some individuals who have little ability to walk far and for them mobility scooters are ideal
What are benefits of a mobility scooter?
There are several benefits of owning a scooter including giving one a sense of independence, restore confidence and allows him/her to live a life of quality.
How does one select a mobility scooter?
There are many types of mobility scooters on the market today. The choice is strictly personal and what one can afford. Most mobility scooters available on the market today are easy to use, light weight, portable, and compact. Many have decent power and can take you back and forth a fair distance. The latest mobility scooters are ultra light weight and can even be folded for transport in car or a van.
What does one need to know before buying a mobility scooter?
It is extremely important to get a light weight scooter. For individuals who live in apartment buildings or need to transport their scooters in a car, weight should be the foremost priority. Never get a scooter which is extremely heavy and cumbersome,. Most of the old scooters were extremely heavy, bulky and took up space. So look for something light weight, compact and easy to use.
Today, there are many individuals not only in North America but globally who have gait problems. The majority of these individuals are the elderly who are frail, have weak bones, joint disease or are simply too old to walk. These individuals need to get outside the home and for them a mobility scooter can be life saving.
What are common causes of gait problems?
There are many medical disorders which can affect an individual’s ability to walk. Some of the more common disorders that affect gait include stroke, diabetes, chronic back problems, multiple sclerosis, paraplegia (partial), severe arthritis and old age.
What are general options when one has gait problems?
There are several options for individuals who need to get around. For those who can still walk, a cane or a walker may suffice. However, there are some individuals who have little ability to walk far and for them mobility scooters are ideal
What are benefits of a mobility scooter?
There are several benefits of owning a scooter including giving one a sense of independence, restore confidence and allows him/her to live a life of quality.
How does one select a mobility scooter?
There are many types of mobility scooters on the market today. The choice is strictly personal and what one can afford. Most mobility scooters available on the market today are easy to use, light weight, portable, and compact. Many have decent power and can take you back and forth a fair distance. The latest mobility scooters are ultra light weight and can even be folded for transport in car or a van.
What does one need to know before buying a mobility scooter?
It is extremely important to get a light weight scooter. For individuals who live in apartment buildings or need to transport their scooters in a car, weight should be the foremost priority. Never get a scooter which is extremely heavy and cumbersome,. Most of the old scooters were extremely heavy, bulky and took up space. So look for something light weight, compact and easy to use.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Herniated Discs 101 part 2
Does everyone develop shrinkage of the herniated discs?
Yes, it is important to understand is that regardless of treatment type, spontaneous shrinkage does occur to some degree in all individuals.
How should herniated discs be treated?
The first treatment for herniated discs is always non surgical. This hold true as long as there is no loss of bowel or bladder control. If a surgeon recommends surgery before trying out any other therapies, you need to get a new physician.
How long does improvement take?
Generally the pain can be moderate/severe during an acute episode of disc herniation and last anywhere from 2-10 days. The majority of individuals will improve without any aggressive treatment. In most cases, this simply means rest and pain control. Gradual decrease in pain will occur over the next two months
What are treatment options for herniated discs?.
The currently available non surgical methods to treat herniated discs include:
- use of over the counter pain medications (Advil)
- use of prescription pain medications
- use of heat packs
- use of ice packs
- application of TENS
- Wearing braces or corsets
- Hydrotherapy once the pain has subsided
- Use of ultrasound
- traction devices to help ease pain and increase range of motion
- Stretching of muscles
- Aerobic exercises
Which treatment should a patient with herniated disc undergo first?
Most individuals should undergo a trial of one or more of above treatments for at least 3-9 months before any decision about surgery is made.
When should one undergo surgery for herniated disc?
If you can help it- avoid surgery. However, sometimes there is no choice. In any case, the decision to undergo surgery is complex and needs to be thoroughly discussed with the surgeon. You need to get a surgeon who is more interested in your back than the money. Plus, the surgeon must be competent. Thirdly check out the surgeon’s experience and record. Ask to talk to his/her former patients. And most important, get to know the procedure and its possible complications. Surgery for back pain has a very poor track record of success.
What types of surgery is available for herniated disc?
The two currently available surgical options for herniated discs include:
- minimally invasive surgery (small incisions)
- decompression surgery to remove pressure off the nerve
If you have a herniated disc, the best thing to do is have a consultation with a physician who specializes in back disorders.
Remember read about the procedure and surgery is always the last option. There are no refunds when things go wrong.
Yes, it is important to understand is that regardless of treatment type, spontaneous shrinkage does occur to some degree in all individuals.
How should herniated discs be treated?
The first treatment for herniated discs is always non surgical. This hold true as long as there is no loss of bowel or bladder control. If a surgeon recommends surgery before trying out any other therapies, you need to get a new physician.
How long does improvement take?
Generally the pain can be moderate/severe during an acute episode of disc herniation and last anywhere from 2-10 days. The majority of individuals will improve without any aggressive treatment. In most cases, this simply means rest and pain control. Gradual decrease in pain will occur over the next two months
What are treatment options for herniated discs?.
The currently available non surgical methods to treat herniated discs include:
- use of over the counter pain medications (Advil)
- use of prescription pain medications
- use of heat packs
- use of ice packs
- application of TENS
- Wearing braces or corsets
- Hydrotherapy once the pain has subsided
- Use of ultrasound
- traction devices to help ease pain and increase range of motion
- Stretching of muscles
- Aerobic exercises
Which treatment should a patient with herniated disc undergo first?
Most individuals should undergo a trial of one or more of above treatments for at least 3-9 months before any decision about surgery is made.
When should one undergo surgery for herniated disc?
If you can help it- avoid surgery. However, sometimes there is no choice. In any case, the decision to undergo surgery is complex and needs to be thoroughly discussed with the surgeon. You need to get a surgeon who is more interested in your back than the money. Plus, the surgeon must be competent. Thirdly check out the surgeon’s experience and record. Ask to talk to his/her former patients. And most important, get to know the procedure and its possible complications. Surgery for back pain has a very poor track record of success.
What types of surgery is available for herniated disc?
The two currently available surgical options for herniated discs include:
- minimally invasive surgery (small incisions)
- decompression surgery to remove pressure off the nerve
If you have a herniated disc, the best thing to do is have a consultation with a physician who specializes in back disorders.
Remember read about the procedure and surgery is always the last option. There are no refunds when things go wrong.
Herniated Discs 101
What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc is one of the most common reasons for long term disability in young people in North America. Basically, all of us have a jelly like substance in our vertebral joints. For some unknown reason (e.g. trauma, heavy lifting) this jelly-like substance leaks and impinges on the nerves which are leaving the spinal cord. When the nerves are pinched or compressed, the patient feels pain. When a herniated disc develops, it can limit how an individuals functions on a daily basis- the chief reason is because of continuous pain. The pain is a dull ache which often radiates to the back of the legs.
How is diagnosis of herniated disc made?
The diagnosis of a herniated disc can be made very easily with an MRI. However, even with a diagnosis, the treatment is somewhat difficult. There is no one type of treatment that works in everyone. Even the same treatment may not work in the future. For most patients with back pain, the treatment has to be individualized. Unfortunately, most health care professionals simply write a pain prescription, send you to a physical therapy exercise (owned by the physician), and then recommend surgery.
Who makes decision about treatment?
In general both the patient and physician should discuss the issue. However, since many patients do not know of all the options, they are at a major disadvantage. Physicians in general will recommend therapies which they know or therapies which are expensive
Can herniated discs occur in the neck?
Sure, herniated discs in the neck are common. But it is herniated discs in lower back that are frequently more disabling that those seen in the neck region.
Can the pain resolve on its own?
Definitely, if one is patient enough, pain from herniated discs will subside with time. In the majority of cases this may take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. Of course, you will need some pain medications for the first few weeks. Once the pain has diminished, one can start physical therapy.
Over time, the herniated disc will shrink and limit the compression on the nerves. Shrinkage of the herniated disc can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. That is why it is extremely important not to undergo any surgery before this time.
A herniated disc is one of the most common reasons for long term disability in young people in North America. Basically, all of us have a jelly like substance in our vertebral joints. For some unknown reason (e.g. trauma, heavy lifting) this jelly-like substance leaks and impinges on the nerves which are leaving the spinal cord. When the nerves are pinched or compressed, the patient feels pain. When a herniated disc develops, it can limit how an individuals functions on a daily basis- the chief reason is because of continuous pain. The pain is a dull ache which often radiates to the back of the legs.
How is diagnosis of herniated disc made?
The diagnosis of a herniated disc can be made very easily with an MRI. However, even with a diagnosis, the treatment is somewhat difficult. There is no one type of treatment that works in everyone. Even the same treatment may not work in the future. For most patients with back pain, the treatment has to be individualized. Unfortunately, most health care professionals simply write a pain prescription, send you to a physical therapy exercise (owned by the physician), and then recommend surgery.
Who makes decision about treatment?
In general both the patient and physician should discuss the issue. However, since many patients do not know of all the options, they are at a major disadvantage. Physicians in general will recommend therapies which they know or therapies which are expensive
Can herniated discs occur in the neck?
Sure, herniated discs in the neck are common. But it is herniated discs in lower back that are frequently more disabling that those seen in the neck region.
Can the pain resolve on its own?
Definitely, if one is patient enough, pain from herniated discs will subside with time. In the majority of cases this may take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. Of course, you will need some pain medications for the first few weeks. Once the pain has diminished, one can start physical therapy.
Over time, the herniated disc will shrink and limit the compression on the nerves. Shrinkage of the herniated disc can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. That is why it is extremely important not to undergo any surgery before this time.
Fecal Incontinence and Dietary Changes
In many cases there is no effective treatment for fecal incontinence. Sometimes an individual may have a stroke or permanent injury to the rectal area and no treatment can completely reverse the incontinence. In such cases, one can still do a few things to better control bowel movements and prevent skin from breaking down.
The first thing all patients with fecal incontinence should do is alter their diet
One must eat the right foods to correct fecal incontinence and this simple maneuver alone can lead to a marked improvement in symptoms.
Make a list of foods you eat and observe when you get more incontinence over a month. This way you will be able to get rid of foods in your diet that make your condition worse. Often many people find out that it is only certain foods that worsen incontinence. Once you know which foods worsen your incontinence, you can stop eating them.
In general, foods that cause create a lot of gas and diarrhea worsen fecal incontinence. These foods generally include processed foods, oriental spices, fatty and oily foods, many soda beverages and dairy products (in individuals who are lactose intolerant).
Excess consumption of alcohol, artificial sweeteners, or cola beverages can also stimulate bowel movements and worsen incontinence.
Try and eat a number of small meals rather than 3-4 large meals. Large meals often stimulate the bowels resulting in diarrhea.
One of the best dietary products recommended for individuals with fecal incontinence is fiber. Fiber can increase bulk, soften stool and leads to slower bowel movements. Fiber containing foods are not expensive and include fruits, vegetables whole grains, and cereals. An average of 20-30 gr of fiber a day is ample. If you add too much fiber in the diet, the side effects will be too much gas, bloating and even diarrhea. If you go slow, then more fiber can be added to the diet.
One should drink an average of 6-8 glasses of water to keep the stools from becoming hard.
Sometimes if an individual has diarrhea, one may need medications to reduce bowel motility. While Loperamide (Imodium) is an excellent drug, it can also induce severe constipation. For those who are chronically constipated, one can try milk of magnesia or Senna. One of the things to note is that medications should be avoided whenever possible. Medications always induce a cycle of constipation/diarrhea and never cure the fecal incontinence. Before starting out on medications, one should try changes in diet to resolve the constipation or diarrhea. Once dietary changes are made, most individuals find that fecal incontinence is less and tolerable
For fecal incontinence supplies, please visit www.medexsupply.com
The first thing all patients with fecal incontinence should do is alter their diet
One must eat the right foods to correct fecal incontinence and this simple maneuver alone can lead to a marked improvement in symptoms.
Make a list of foods you eat and observe when you get more incontinence over a month. This way you will be able to get rid of foods in your diet that make your condition worse. Often many people find out that it is only certain foods that worsen incontinence. Once you know which foods worsen your incontinence, you can stop eating them.
In general, foods that cause create a lot of gas and diarrhea worsen fecal incontinence. These foods generally include processed foods, oriental spices, fatty and oily foods, many soda beverages and dairy products (in individuals who are lactose intolerant).
Excess consumption of alcohol, artificial sweeteners, or cola beverages can also stimulate bowel movements and worsen incontinence.
Try and eat a number of small meals rather than 3-4 large meals. Large meals often stimulate the bowels resulting in diarrhea.
One of the best dietary products recommended for individuals with fecal incontinence is fiber. Fiber can increase bulk, soften stool and leads to slower bowel movements. Fiber containing foods are not expensive and include fruits, vegetables whole grains, and cereals. An average of 20-30 gr of fiber a day is ample. If you add too much fiber in the diet, the side effects will be too much gas, bloating and even diarrhea. If you go slow, then more fiber can be added to the diet.
One should drink an average of 6-8 glasses of water to keep the stools from becoming hard.
Sometimes if an individual has diarrhea, one may need medications to reduce bowel motility. While Loperamide (Imodium) is an excellent drug, it can also induce severe constipation. For those who are chronically constipated, one can try milk of magnesia or Senna. One of the things to note is that medications should be avoided whenever possible. Medications always induce a cycle of constipation/diarrhea and never cure the fecal incontinence. Before starting out on medications, one should try changes in diet to resolve the constipation or diarrhea. Once dietary changes are made, most individuals find that fecal incontinence is less and tolerable
For fecal incontinence supplies, please visit www.medexsupply.com
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