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Bipolar disorder tough to diagnose
Mr. S. was visibly upset about his wife’s behaviour and mood swings. Her “gambling addiction” playing the slots accumulated $40,000 in debt. Mrs. S. admitted gambling was a problem but continued to do so because of the exhilaration of knowing she would win the big prize. There were other notable behaviours.
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Promising breast cancer treatment needs supporting studies
The announcement last week that Letrozole reduced breast cancer recurrence represents another step forward in the battle against breast cancer. When an announcement of a “groundbreaking” study, it is understandable to react with hope that a cherished life will be saved and suffering will end.
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Silent epidemic gains momentum
Take a regular diameter (pencil eraser) size straw and breathe through it while pinching your nose for five minutes. How many would be able to complete this task before gasping for air? Everyone understands the panic that envelops us when we cannot breathe. This universal response is one of our greatest fears. Despite this, an…
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Back pain can be a real strain, but can heal itself
About 90 per cent of adults will experience acute back strain and pain in their lifetime. It is a leading cause of work absenteeism and reduced productivity in Canada and the United States. Interestingly, most back pain resolves regardless of the type of therapy used. Indeed, most will return to work within three months of…
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Medications can soothe menstrual cramps
It is the most common gynecologic problem women face in their lives. Every month it can wreak havoc in a woman’s ability to function at work, interfere with social interactions and family life. Even after it passes it looms over her shoulder ready to inflict pain and suffering in a seemingly unending cycle.
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The science of hand washing
Streptococcus, staphylococcus, E. coli, rhinovirus, Norwalk (gastroenteritis) and Coxsackie virus (Hand, Foot and Mouth disease) among others routinely contaminate our hands through the course of our daily activities. Our old soap standby does not eliminate germs as well as we think it does. Hand washing is a little more complicated than it seems.
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Medical marijuana at odds with doctors' promise
Several of my patients have asked about the medicinal use of marijuana. Some are cancer patients, others have chronic pain syndromes. A conundrum exists; we must do our utmost to alleviate pain and suffering, adhere to an accepted standard of care based on scientific evidence and data and most importantly not harm the patient.
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Herbal remedies can work, but they are not always safe
Herbal remedies are medical concern. A substantial minority of people use them. Indeed, many people do not tell their doctor about herbal medication use unless directly asked. This is not a recipe for good comprehensive health assessment. Some herbal preparations will adversely interact with prescription medications.
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Get a check up, but don't check everything
The human body is like a car with its own built-in obsolescence. With proper care and maintenance, we can extend the quality and years of life. Cars are a good example of how benign neglect can lead to numerous breakdown and repair cycles until the car eventually falls apart.
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