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Obstetric complications
Some women can sail through pregnancy with nary a problem while others can have a difficult time. The basis for treating these conditions rests entirely upon individual circumstances. If these problems interfere with ones ability to function consult with your doctor. Ask about the available treatment options. It is important to have options and to…
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Assuming the worst
In June of 2000 my Dad was hospitalized for some surgery. He related the following story to me that made me stop and think about how we treat our patients and where, perhaps, some of our interpersonal skills come from.
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Like, do you know where your teen is?
You are in a line for a movie and you pass gas or do some other embarrassing activity. Your first reaction usually is “Oh my god, they all know I did it!” This is a remnant of your teen years. Teens are naturally self- centered and experience that reaction you had about ten times more…
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Buyer Beware
Nothing is too wonderful to be true. Michael Faraday (1791 – 1867) Insight, untested and unsupported, is an insufficient guarantee of truth. Bertrand Russell, Mysticism and Logic (1929) Everyday we are bombarded with health claims and gadgets to “improve” our already healthy lifestyles. Statistics and facts are used to convince us to buy into the…
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The Truth About Vaccinations
Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen July 4, 2001 We know all too well the pain and suffering the victim, their families and friends endure from the scourge of AIDs. Imagine it’s the year 2051 and there is a vaccine for AIDs. AIDs has been virtually eliminated. Small outbreaks continue to occur but for the…
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Post partum depression
Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen, June 21, 2001 Post Partum Depression (PPD) is a severe debilitating illness. It occurs in about one in ten childbearing women. It can cause women untold and unnecessary suffering and guilt. It is important to keep in mind the difference between the “baby blues” and PPD.
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The choices we make
Life is about options, the choices we make and the paths we follow. For some it can be a bittersweet experience. Yet, these decisions can alter the lives of many. Some are aware of these changes and some, regretfully, are not.
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The birthday present
One of the great joys of adolescent practice is when one is able to have a positive influence upon one’s patient. Once your patient trusts your judgment and counsel, the ability to affect positive change in their lives improves dramatically.