myHeartyHeart.com

Common Heart Arrhythmia Treatment Options for Patients

admin — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 21:29:11 +0000

Approximately 850,000 patients a year are being diagnosed with heart arrhythmia. Coronary artery disease, electrolyte imbalances, injury from myocardial infarction, excessive stress, and irregular heart valve function are considered some of the more common causes for serious cases of arrhythmia. Nevertheless, advanced medical research developments in the areas of arrhythmia treatment have enabled physicians to make accurate diagnoses and offer personalized solutions. This has resulted in patients adopting a healthier lifestyle, taking medications, or opting for necessary surgical procedures.

Although some people with irregular heartbeats require no treatment, many others must get immediate medical attention. Patients who are experiencing a persistent onset of symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, faintness or lightheadedness must check into a hospital as soon as possible. The different types of arrhythmia such as ventricular tachycardia (fast beat), pulmonary embolism (blood clot in lungs) and cardiomyopathy (heart muscle weakness) require sufferers to make considerable changes in their eating habits and commit to a regular exercise schedule.

Doctors routinely recommend significant dietary restrictions in an effort to drastically reduce a patient’s cholesterol and sodium intake levels. Stimulants such as smoking, coffee, alcohol, over the counter medicines and weight loss pills should also be avoided. Low resistance exercise such as taking a daily brisk walk will greatly contribute to proper blood flow through the heart’s upper and lower chambers. These lifestyle changes are needed to restore a normal heart rate cycle and simultaneously break down plaque deposits in artery walls.

Medications are primarily designed to counteract the effects of arrhythmia by controlling blood pressure and restoring the number of heart beats per minute to a normal range. Beta-blockers are an effective arrhythmia treatment alternative in successfully dealing with heart rhythm disorders and angina. Blood thinners or anti-coagulants prevent the formation of clots while anti-arrhythmic drugs and calcium channel blockers control or slow down a fast heart rate.

Electrical cardioversion is an arrhythmia treatment procedure that is usually administered to sedated patients by shocking the chest wall to restore a normal heart rate. The implantable cardioverter-defribillator (ICD) is used to disrupt an abnormal heart rhythm by delivering electrical impulses. A pacemaker is a tiny device that is placed under the skin to speed up a slow beating heart to normal levels. Bypass surgery is usually the recommended choice for patients suffering from coronary artery disease.

Doctors frequently utilize the above arrhythmia treatment options to help their patients successfully recover. Additionally, many hospitals have proactively reduced the number of emergency room visits by holding educational seminars, distributing helpful literature and setting up free health screenings. The best way for patients and their families to stay healthy is to arm themselves with the facts, maintain a balanced diet, exercise, and consult with their doctor on a regular basis.

Margrove and others: Anixety and Omega 3s (EPA and DHA)

admin — Wed, 02 May 2007 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

Don’t be, dear Jackie. My blood sugar levels were raised and still are but I actually restarted my exercise program. Losing weight is the key here and although I hate it with a passion I wouldn’t want to suffer the consequences of neglected diabetes. Do you take any medication for it and if so how do you like it? I remember a recent post of yours saying that you took some med (this Diovan?) to prevent kidney trouble from diabetes. Why is this necessary? I thought your diabetes was under control by watching your diet. I ask out of interest but also because I want to *know* for myself… and you are really knowledgeable. You are also very sweet. I *never* met anyone, on the net or in RL, who has so much concern and attention for so many other people and on top of it you’re witty and fun company. Everybody here knows this but IMO every now and again something has to actually say it out loud in public. It feels good. Let’s marry as Tanya would say Philip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::http://www.omegabrite.com/company/about_us.html Thanks for the link!! ::evening primrose up to 2600mg per day or borage seed oil up to 3000mg ::per day, flax seed oil up to 3000mg per day Which one would you recommend for me? Jackie ~*~"It’s the crazy ones that have all the good pills"~*~ ~~Kim Cattrall — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Don’t be, dear Jackie. My blood sugar levels were raised and still are ::but I actually restarted my exercise program. Losing weight is the key ::here and although I hate it with a passion I wouldn’t want to suffer the ::consequences of neglected diabetes. ::Do you take any medication for it and if so how do you like it? ::I remember a recent post of yours saying that you took some med (this ::Diovan?) to prevent kidney trouble from diabetes. Why is this necessary? ::I thought your diabetes was under control by watching your diet. ::I ask out of interest but also because I want to *know* for myself… ::and you are really knowledgeable. ::You are also very sweet. I *never* met anyone, on the net or in RL, who ::has so much concern and attention for so many other people and on top of ::it you’re witty and fun company. Everybody here knows this but IMO every ::now and again something has to actually say it out loud in public. It ::feels good. I take 2000 mgs of Glucophage daily and some cinnamon supplements to help with glucose control. My A1cs are always in the upper 4s and lower 5s. What’s great about the Glucophage is that not only does it help lower blood sugars….. it offers cardiac protection as well. Heart disease is a big killer of diabetics. My doctor is adamant that all her diabetics, even well controlled ones, be on benign and the worst side-effects are usually GI ones, which subside fairly quickly. It’s pretty standard treatment (In the US, not sure about other countries) for diabetics to be prescribed either a ACE inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker for kidney protection. About two years ago a urine test showed protein. I was panic-stricken. It appeared to be a lab error but it scared me enough to know that I wanted to stay on the Diovan. I understand how frustrating this disease can be. One thing that helps me to stay in control is remembering how horrible and anxious and depressed I feel when my sugars are all over the place. How are you feeling with elevated sugars? You will get them back down again. Wishing you better health! (((((Philip))))) ::Let’s marry as Tanya would say LOL! I am so touched Jackie ~*~"It’s the crazy ones that have all the good pills"~*~ ~~Kim Cattrall — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – :: so you can get distilled version that ::supposedly have these materials condensed out through heating-but that ::same heating may alter the structure of the fats, you could also use ::flaxseed oils and I think evening primrose for the same levels as well ::as flaxseed oils or just eat flaxseed. Are you saying these that flaxseed and evening primrose are a safer alternative to the Omega fish oils being there’s a possibility of metal contamination? I’ve been taking fish oils for quite a while now and do feel they help me. It could be placebo effect or that I’m doing better because I have been really pushing myself the last year or so and have made great strides. I’ll switch to evening primrose if it’s safer. Jackie ~*~Nature made us individuals,as she did the flowers and the pebbles; but we are afraid to be peculiar,and so our society resembles a bag of marbles, or a string of mold candles. Why should we all dress after the same fashion? The frost never paints my windows twice alike.~*~ ~~Lydia Maria Child

empirically they are safer alternatives but offer less efa then fish oil-at the doses you are using your intake of metals is pretty low, but do check to see if the product is distilled-some of the more expensive products use a cold nitrogen distillation that would remove most of any heavy metals in particular mercury-I have a link to one if you want it — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Jackie, how much of the Omega 3 do you take? Philip (I take 500 mg and wonder if that’s the right dose) — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::Jackie, how much of the Omega 3 do you take? I aim for 3000 mgs per day, but sometimes only remember to take 2000 mgs. I don’t know if it’s in my head, but 3000 mgs seems to upset my stomach. How are you feeling otherwise? I’ve been worried about you. Jackie ~*~Nature made us individuals,as she did the flowers and the pebbles; but we are afraid to be peculiar,and so our society resembles a bag of marbles, or a string of mold candles. Why should we all dress after the same fashion? The frost never paints my windows twice alike.~*~ ~~Lydia Maria Child — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

::empirically they are safer alternatives but offer less efa then fish ::oil-at the doses you are using your intake of metals is pretty low, ::but do check to see if the product is distilled-some of the more ::expensive products use a cold nitrogen distillation that would remove ::most of any heavy metals in particular mercury-I have a link to one if ::you want it I’m taking Spring Valley Omega 3 fish oils. They claim it is 99.99 % purified fish oil. I don’t see anything about it being distilled. I’d like that link. Thanks! If I do switch to evening primrose, how much can I take? I am seeing my doctor in a few weeks and will discuss it with her. Jackie ~*~Nature made us individuals,as she did the flowers and the pebbles; but we are afraid to be peculiar,and so our society resembles a bag of marbles, or a string of mold candles. Why should we all dress after the same fashion? The frost never paints my windows twice alike.~*~ ~~Lydia Maria Child — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ::empirically they are safer alternatives but offer less efa then fish ::oil-at the doses you are using your intake of metals is pretty low, ::but do check to see if the product is distilled-some of the more ::expensive products use a cold nitrogen distillation that would remove ::most of any heavy metals in particular mercury-I have a link to one if ::you want it I’m taking Spring Valley Omega 3 fish oils. They claim it is 99.99 % purified fish oil. I don’t see anything about it being distilled. I’d like that link. Thanks! If I do switch to evening primrose, how much can I take? I am seeing my doctor in a few weeks and will discuss it with her. Jackie ~*~Nature made us individuals,as she did the flowers and the pebbles; but we are afraid to be peculiar,and so our society resembles a bag of marbles, or a string of mold candles. Why should we all dress after the same fashion? The frost never paints my windows twice alike.~*~ ~~Lydia Maria Child

http://www.omegabrite.com/company/about_us.html evening primrose up to 2600mg per day or borage seed oil up to 3000mg per day, flax seed oil up to 3000mg per day — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

:: so you can get distilled version that ::supposedly have these materials condensed out through heating-but that ::same heating may alter the structure of the fats, you could also use ::flaxseed oils and I think evening primrose for the same levels as well ::as flaxseed oils or just eat flaxseed. Are you saying these that flaxseed and evening primrose are a safer alternative to the Omega fish oils being there’s a possibility of metal contamination? I’ve been taking fish oils for quite a while now and do feel they help me. It could be placebo effect or that I’m doing better because I have been really pushing myself the last year or so and have made great strides. I’ll switch to evening primrose if it’s safer. Jackie ~*~Nature made us individuals,as she did the flowers and the pebbles; but we are afraid to be peculiar,and so our society resembles a bag of marbles, or a string of mold candles. Why should we all dress after the same fashion? The frost never paints my windows twice alike.~*~ ~~Lydia Maria Child — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Margrove, I have gone through a lot of previous posts regarding Anxiety and Omega 3s. I hope the following is not redundant to anything you’ve posted in the past. I do not expect that Omega 3s be the "Smoking Gun" for Anxiety. If they help even a little, I would like to continue trying them. I have read their rationale for Depression, and somewhat for Bi-polar depression. Fortunately, I don’t suffer from depression. Only Panic Disorder. Basically, I’d like to know how much EPA and DHA I need for Panic Disorder. I’ve heard that high doses are required (I think it was for) bi-polar depression. What is a good way to get the required amount of EPA/DHA without ingesting a lot of mercury or unwanted fats. For example, (it seems) that a typical bottle of fish-oil contains 18% EPA and 12% DHA. Each capsule is listed to be 1000 mg. One source recommends 3.4 grams of DHA and 6.2 grams of EPA (Edmund Drummond). This would imply: 52 capsules qd for the DHA requirement, and 35 capsules qd for the EPA requirement. Besides financial considerations, this could mean consuming a lot of unwanted substances. So, I’m wondering: (i) Do you think it’s even worthwhile trying Omega 3s for Panic Disorder (or any Anxiety Disorder)? (ii) What would be a cost-effective solution without consuming too many unwanted side-products? Thanks.

there is much conflicting information about how much efa we need to have, let alone what doses are therapeutic if any. Much has been speculated about benefits in cellular function across neuronal tissue by using efa material and as such some docs, other professionals recommend using a modest amount to possibly gain some benefit, sadly, many quacks also recommend it for profiteering-using a modest amount like a few pills a day doesn’t seem to have adverse reactions in the short time they have been studied. The fish used to get the oil may be contaminated with heavy metals, so you can get distilled version that supposedly have these materials condensed out through heating-but that same heating may alter the structure of the fats, you could also use flaxseed oils and I think evening primrose for the same levels as well as flaxseed oils or just eat flaxseed. I haven’t seen anyone become cured or get significantly better using them for any psychiatric condition including depression unless it was a temporary placebo effect that soon wore off when new conflicts arose. Again, there is no magic bullet, just some tools to try with a high probablity that the laws of trial and error will default to error more then not — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Margrove, I have gone through a lot of previous posts regarding Anxiety and Omega 3s. I hope the following is not redundant to anything you’ve posted in the past. I do not expect that Omega 3s be the "Smoking Gun" for Anxiety. If they help even a little, I would like to continue trying them. I have read their rationale for Depression, and somewhat for Bi-polar depression. Fortunately, I don’t suffer from depression. Only Panic Disorder. Basically, I’d like to know how much EPA and DHA I need for Panic Disorder. I’ve heard that high doses are required (I think it was for) bi-polar depression. What is a good way to get the required amount of EPA/DHA without ingesting a lot of mercury or unwanted fats. For example, (it seems) that a typical bottle of fish-oil contains 18% EPA and 12% DHA. Each capsule is listed to be 1000 mg. One source recommends 3.4 grams of DHA and 6.2 grams of EPA (Edmund Drummond). This would imply: 52 capsules qd for the DHA requirement, and 35 capsules qd for the EPA requirement. Besides financial considerations, this could mean consuming a lot of unwanted substances. So, I’m wondering: (i) Do you think it’s even worthwhile trying Omega 3s for Panic Disorder (or any Anxiety Disorder)? (ii) What would be a cost-effective solution without consuming too many unwanted side-products? Thanks. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

New member: See story inside…

admin — Wed, 01 Feb 2006 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

ACT I: I’ve had anxiety since I was a kid. I can remember sitting in grade school and worrying that my parents were going to be robbed or killed. I’ve gone through a lot in my life that I never connected with anxiety because it seemed normal to me. I moved a couple of times because I thought I had AIDS. I’ve parked outside emergency rooms worried that I was about to have a heart attack. I’v also gone through times in my life when I was not particularly anxious, but eventually the anxiety would step in in a way that would put a ceiling on things. For example, I rowed competitively for several years — I loved being out on the water and engaging in the vigorous challenge. But one day I started having concerns about heart disease and said good-bye to an activity that gave me real pleasure. A few years ago my dad died and I went on my first medication — Zoloft. Considering the impact my dad’s death had on me I can honestly say that it feels like Zoloft saved my life. I was doing well on a dose as low as 25mg. I was on it for 18 months then weaned myself. It took about six months to wean even from that low dose. My main withdrawal symptom was an annoying popping in my ears. In retrospect, I do believe Zoloft made me complacent. My employment situation was bad and I wasn’t really doing anything to address it. That might have been situational, I don’t know. In the past, work has always fallen into my lap and in that period of time it did not. I ended up liquidating my IRA for expenses. The past three years without Zoloft have been; so so. I have a lot of trouble focusing and completing things. A LOT. Half-read books, projects that go unfinished. Recently, though, work has been going well as has family, and I have been exercising a lot which on a day to basis makes a HUGE impact in how I feel and behave. HOWEVER: ACT II We have had a rough month. Lots of stressful stuff has come up. A death in the family, a minor but upsetting car accident. I noticed that my mood went downhill quickly. I was very guarded (a little paranoid) about the car accident, about the safety of my family. I grew irritable, started having heart symptoms. I also got a new family doctor who noticed my demeanor was off and she has strongly recommended Lexapro. SHe has worked with around 200 patients and says the results have been great. Here’s why I am considering it: I know that when things get stressful, I can’t ALWAYS exercise every day and when I don’t exercise, as with this month, I go on a downward spiral. Which is where I am now. I feel like I need something to equalize my mood for day-to-day existence. I DON’T want this anxiety to have an impact at home or at work (at work, anxiety has a pronounced impact not only on my mood but also on my level of self-confidence). Simply can’t afford that, and don’t want to put anyone else or myself through that. Here’s why I am hesitant: I am nervous about the side effects — the sexual one, and the "break-in" period. How long will I have weaning on symptoms and will that interfere with my work? (I am asking rhetorically. Of course no one knows the answers.) Also very worried about the complacency aspect. WIll it dull me the way Zoloft did, and will I then not be motivated to exercise and attempt to improve other areas? ACT III I don’t know. I’d like to make a decision. I’m inclined to starting the Lex this weekend. I am interested in others’ thoughts and experiences — particularly the men. PS: Note to the poster named Danni: I read your post from earlier this month. I had a "non-fatal" std in my 20s and had the same concerns as you. My concerns felt overwhelming; sometimes they still do. But I attribute that not to the std but to my anxiety syndrome. Some people can simply laugh off the experience and be thankful nothing worse happened. I’ll tell you this, though: I am married and do have kids! So all the worry and anxiety really were useless in the end. — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

I noticed that my mood went downhill quickly. Here’s why I am hesitant: I am nervous about the side effects — the sexual one

Consider Remeron. It’s an antidepressant and anti-anxiety agent. Sexual side effects are rare. Sedation and weight gain is common. Chip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

I noticed that my mood went downhill quickly. Here’s why I am hesitant: I am nervous about the side effects — the sexual one Consider Remeron. It’s an antidepressant and anti-anxiety agent. Sexual side effects are rare. Sedation and weight gain is common. Chip

If you want some anecdotal data – I found some degree of sexual side effects of the 10 ADs I had. Lexapro was the friendliest and had no sexual side-effects for me — _TJ_

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I noticed that my mood went downhill quickly. Here’s why I am hesitant: I am nervous about the side effects — the sexual one Consider Remeron. It’s an antidepressant and anti-anxiety agent. Sexual side effects are rare. Sedation and weight gain is common. Chip If you want some anecdotal data – I found some degree of sexual side effects of the 10 ADs I had. Lexapro was the friendliest and had no sexual side-effects for me

Good, TJ. Were you ever on Remeron, Serzone, or Wellbutrin? Any sexual side effects with any of these? Those three are supposed to have sexual side effects only rarely. Chip — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Good, TJ. Were you ever on Remeron, Serzone, or Wellbutrin? Any sexual side effects with any of these? Those three are supposed to have sexual side effects only rarely. Chip

I’ve never had these, but ask me again in a few weeks – my pdoc is lining up Remeron next. — _TJ_

Response:

Thanks for your response and encouragement. When I was on the Zoloft, I was consulting with a pdoc. My new family doctor says that she has specialized in treating anxiety and depression, has 200 patients she treats and has worked with other physicians and pharms both in learning about and training other docs about proper use of anti-anxiety and anti-depressants. I’m inclined to take her at her word, unless it seems I would absolutely be better in the hands of a pdoc. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Caffeine, Stress and Your Health: Is Caffeine Your Friend or Your Foe? 1/30/06

admin — Mon, 30 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

Interesting stuff. I drank too much coffee tonite and I’m gonna pay for it tomorrow (when I have to get up early and go to work). Too bad I didn’t read this first… Thanks Jackie! — Doug

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Caffeine, Stress and Your Health: Is Caffeine Your Friend or Your Foe? From Elizabeth Scott, Your Guide to Stress Management. Caffeine is a drug, popularly consumed in coffee, tea, soft drinks and, in smaller doses, chocolate. While we seem to have a love affair with these products, there’s been quite a bit of confusion and even controversy surrounding caffeine lately. Is it good or bad for us? Here’s a brief tutorial on caffeine, and some surprising answers to these questions. Effects on the Body: Hormones- You can feel the effects of caffeine in your system within a few minutes of ingesting it, and it stays on your system for many hours-it has a half-life of four to six hours in your body. While in your body, caffeine affects the following hormones: Adenosine- Can inhibit absorption of adenosine, which calms the body, which can make you feel alert in the short run, but can cause sleep problems later. Adrenaline- Caffeine injects adrenaline into your system, giving you a temporary boost, but possibly making you fatigued and depressed later. If you take more caffeine to counteract these effects, you end up spending the day in an agitated state, and might find yourself jumpy and edgy by night. Cortisol- Can increase the body’s levels of cortisol, the "stress hormone", which can lead to other health consequences ranging from weight gain and moodiness to heart disease and diabetes. Dopamine- Caffeine increases dopamine levels in your system, acting in a way similar to amphetamines, which can make you feel good after taking it, but after it wears off you can feel ‘low’. It can also lead to a physical dependence because of dopamine manipulation. These changes caffeine makes in your physiology can have both positive and negative consequences: Sleep Caffeine can affect your sleep by keeping you awake longer, thereby shortening the amount of sleep you get, and giving you less time in the restorative stages of sleep, which takes a toll on your level of alertness the next day and overall health. Interestingly, though, caffeine doesn’t affect the stages of sleep the way other stimulants do, so it’s a better choice than speed or other ‘uppers’ to use if you need to stay awake. Weight Many experts believe that increased levels of cortisol lead to stronger cravings for fat and carbohydrates, and cause the body to store fat in the abdomen. (Abdominal fat carries with it greater health risks than other types of fat.) Also, if increased cortisol levels lead to stronger cravings for caffeine-laden foods, the body goes into a cycle that leads only to worse health. The good news, though, is that caffeine can speed up metabolism. Also, it can help the body break down fat about 30% more efficiently if consumed prior to exercise. (You must be exercising to get this benefit, though.) Additionally, caffeine can keep blood sugar levels elevated, leaving you feeling less hungry. Exercise If caffeine elevates levels of cortisol and other hormones for a temporary boost, after caffeine wears off, the body can feel fatigued and feelings of mild to moderate depression can set in. This can make physical activity more difficult. On the positive side, caffeine has been found to enhance physical performance and endurance if it isn’t overused. This, combined with its effect of fat burning during exercise, can actually enhance workouts and enable you to get in better shape if you take it at the right time. Caffeine and Stress Because caffeine and stress can both elevate cortisol levels, high amounts of caffeine (or stress) can lead to the negative health effects associated with prolonged elevated levels of cortisol (which you can read about here). If you ingest high levels of caffeine, you may feel your mood soar and plummet, leaving you craving more caffeine to make it soar again, causing you to lose sleep, suffer health consequences and, of course, feel more stress. However, small to moderate amounts of caffeine can lift your mood and give you a boost. The Verdict on Caffeine With potential negative and positive health consequences, caffeine can be your friend, but in controlled doses. Here’s what you should remember about caffeine: Don’t Take Too Much Because of the health risks (above) associated with higher levels of caffeine, as well as the risk of physical dependence that can come with four cups of coffee or more each day, it’s wise to limit your caffeine intake. (Withdrawal symptoms can include cravings, headache, fatigue and muscle pain.) No Caffeine After 2pm Because sleep is important to proper physical functioning, and caffeine can stay in your system for 8 hours or longer, you should cut off or limit your caffeine intake to the first part of the day to ensure that your sleep isn’t disrupted. Enjoy Caffeine With Physical Activity Caffeine is best ingested before exercise-that way your performance is enhanced and the stress-management benefits of exercise can keep you healthy and feeling less stressed throughout the day. http://stress.about.com/od/stresshealth/a/caffeine.htm Jackie ~*~Do unto others as though you were the others~*~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

I’ll agree with this Jackie, there’s nothing like an ice-cold, black cup of coffee. That is, until I need to get some sleep. — Doug

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – ::I’m glad you posted this as I have a real love-hate relationship with ::caffeine. to one, maybe two mugs a day now. If I`m feeling anxious, I`ll just have 1/2 a mug so as not to get withdrawals. My favorite is a big flavored iced coffee Jackie ~*~Do unto others as though you were the others~*~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

– The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Caffeine, Stress and Your Health: Is Caffeine Your Friend or Your Foe? From Elizabeth Scott, Your Guide to Stress Management. Jackie ~*~Do unto others as though you were the others~*~

I’m glad you posted this as I have a real love-hate relationship with caffeine. I drank it for 30 years and never had a problem. Then when I developed panic attacks, caffeine became impossible for me. Now I have to avoid it if at all possible. If you can drink caffeine without any negative effects then good luck to you! I can’t really do it any more — _TJ_

Response:

::I’m glad you posted this as I have a real love-hate relationship with ::caffeine. one, maybe two mugs a day now. If I`m feeling anxious, I`ll just have 1/2 a mug so as not to get withdrawals. My favorite is a big flavored iced coffee Jackie ~*~Do unto others as though you were the others~*~ — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Caffeine, Stress and Your Health: Is Caffeine Your Friend or Your Foe? From Elizabeth Scott, Your Guide to Stress Management. Jackie ~*~Do unto others as though you were the others~*~ I’m glad you posted this as I have a real love-hate relationship with caffeine. I drank it for 30 years and never had a problem. Then when I developed panic attacks, caffeine became impossible for me. Now I have to avoid it if at all possible. If you can drink caffeine without any negative effects then good luck to you! I can’t really do it any more

Same here TJ. I had to stopped drinking caffeine over 2 years ago. I used to drink tons of it, all day long but it started really effecting my anxiety and made it much worse so it is no longer a part of my life. People who always knew me are still in shock because at work I always had a cup on my desk. Vicki — The charter is available at: http://readystump.algebra.com/~asapm

Response:

Caffeine, Stress and Your Health: Is Caffeine Your Friend or Your Foe? From Elizabeth Scott,

Your Guide to Stress Management. Caffeine is a drug, popularly consumed in coffee, tea, soft drinks and, in smaller doses, chocolate. While we seem to have a love affair with these products, there

reversing Heart Blockage

admin — Mon, 16 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I do not get tired of doing work, I am non smoker, non drinker, vegetarian , havebeen taking lots of fruits from decades, I also get regular blood test for cholestrol, trigricides and sugar . and have always got positive results second week of January 2004 i had chest pain and i visited my family doctor immediately he advised me for angiography and on 13th jan 2005 it was diagnosed that i had blockage which was of great concerned. since then i am on control diet no fats, no dairy products, no oils, lots of fruits salads and vegetables, oats….. I have now few questions to ask any help will be highly appreciated 1) Can heart blockage removed without getting operated 2) how can i view angography CD and interpret it 3) are their any test to verify heart blockage other than angiography 4) If my cholestrol was always in control than how come their is blockage ? BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 30-NOV-2004 BLOOD SUGAR——-99.2 MG/DL S.CREATININE——1.2 MG/DL S.URIC ACID——-5.1 MG/DL S. CHOLESTEROL—-188.2 MG/DL S. TRIGLYCERIDES–130.3 MG/DL Prescribed Medicines (Ceruvin 75 mg and Razel 10 mg) Result After Medication BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 17-AUG-2005 GLUCOSE (FASTING)——93 MG/DL SERUM CREATININE——-1.0 MG/DL VLDL CHOLESTEROL——-17 MG/DL HEART REPORT Dated 13/01/05 INDICATION: Post MI Evaluation Previous Procedure——None Procedure Details Route:——SF Sheath Size Catheter——RCA JR ——LCA JL Contrast——Ionic Complications——Nil Hemodynamic Status Aortic Pressure(S/D/M)——130/80/mmHg Post 18 mmHg EF 45 % LV angiography done in RAO view and shows RWMA Apical, Inferior segment Hypokinetic. Other segment normal. Coronary Angiography Summary Triple Vessel Disease LAD mid segment stenosis , LCx mid segment stenosis, RCA proximal segment stenosis, proximal segment stenosis, Mild LV Dysfunction Thankyou for you answers Jattinder

Wow thats a great read jattinder and so sorry about your Heart blockage.I think any answers will help people in the future like me understand what might help for them also . What did you eat allot of that may have caused this ? Dairy? Your cholesterol was pretty low! Good luck and hope you get some good answers.

Response:

I do not get tired of doing work, I am non smoker, non drinker, vegetarian , havebeen taking lots of fruits from decades, I also get regular blood test for cholestrol, trigricides and sugar . and have always got positive results second week of January 2004 i had chest pain and i visited my family doctor immediately he advised me for angiography and on 13th jan 2005 it was diagnosed that i had blockage which was of great concerned. since then i am on control diet no fats, no dairy products, no oils, lots of fruits salads and vegetables, oats….. I have now few questions to ask any help will be highly appreciated 1) Can heart blockage removed without getting operated 2) how can i view angography CD and interpret it 3) are their any test to verify heart blockage other than angiography 4) If my cholestrol was always in control than how come their is blockage ? BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 30-NOV-2004 BLOOD SUGAR——-99.2 MG/DL S.CREATININE——1.2 MG/DL S.URIC ACID——-5.1 MG/DL S. CHOLESTEROL—-188.2 MG/DL S. TRIGLYCERIDES–130.3 MG/DL Prescribed Medicines (Ceruvin 75 mg and Razel 10 mg) Result After Medication BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 17-AUG-2005 GLUCOSE (FASTING)——93 MG/DL SERUM CREATININE——-1.0 MG/DL VLDL CHOLESTEROL——-17 MG/DL HEART REPORT Dated 13/01/05 INDICATION: Post MI Evaluation Previous Procedure——None Procedure Details Route:——SF Sheath Size Catheter——RCA JR ——LCA JL Contrast——Ionic Complications——Nil Hemodynamic Status Aortic Pressure(S/D/M)——130/80/mmHg Post 18 mmHg EF 45 % LV angiography done in RAO view and shows RWMA Apical, Inferior segment Hypokinetic. Other segment normal.

Coronary Angiography Summary Triple Vessel Disease LAD mid segment stenosis , LCx mid segment stenosis, RCA proximal segment stenosis, proximal segment stenosis, Mild LV Dysfunction Thankyou for you answers Jattinder

Response:

one of the most important risk factors I am not sure anyone mentioned. Of course I have not followed all the links . If you want to know ask.

Response:

: I do not get tired of doing work, : I am non smoker, non drinker, vegetarian , havebeen taking lots of : fruits from decades, : I also get regular blood test for cholestrol, trigricides and sugar . : and have always got positive results : second week of January 2004 i had chest pain and i visited my family : doctor immediately he advised me for angiography and on 13th jan 2005 : it was diagnosed that i had blockage which was of great concerned. : : since then i am on control diet no fats, no dairy products, no oils, : lots of fruits salads and vegetables, oats….. : : I have now few questions to ask any help will be highly appreciated : : 1) Can heart blockage removed without getting operated : 2) how can i view angography CD and interpret it : 3) are their any test to verify heart blockage other than angiography : 4) If my cholestrol was always in control than how come their is : blockage ? You might want to have a look at this thread in sci.med.nutrition: http://tinyurl.com/dtvoa — Juhana

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I do not get tired of doing work, I am non smoker, non drinker, vegetarian , havebeen taking lots of fruits from decades, I also get regular blood test for cholestrol, trigricides and sugar . and have always got positive results second week of January 2004 i had chest pain and i visited my family doctor immediately he advised me for angiography and on 13th jan 2005 it was diagnosed that i had blockage which was of great concerned. since then i am on control diet no fats, no dairy products, no oils, lots of fruits salads and vegetables, oats….. I have now few questions to ask any help will be highly appreciated 1) Can heart blockage removed without getting operated

Yes. Through the process of "reverse cholesterol transport." 2) how can i view angography CD and interpret it

Through your cardiologist. 3) are their any test to verify heart blockage other than angiography

Yes. Many. 4) If my cholestrol was always in control than how come their is blockage ?

You may have other risk factors for developing blockages. Many overlook metabolic syndrome (MetS) BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 30-NOV-2004 BLOOD SUGAR——-99.2 MG/DL

A little on the high side of normal. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – S.CREATININE——1.2 MG/DL S.URIC ACID——-5.1 MG/DL S. CHOLESTEROL—-188.2 MG/DL S. TRIGLYCERIDES–130.3 MG/DL Prescribed Medicines (Ceruvin 75 mg and Razel 10 mg) Result After Medication BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 17-AUG-2005 GLUCOSE (FASTING)——93 MG/DL SERUM CREATININE——-1.0 MG/DL

Lower than optimal and consistent with MetS. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – VLDL CHOLESTEROL——-17 MG/DL HEART REPORT Dated 13/01/05 INDICATION: Post MI Evaluation Previous Procedure——None Procedure Details Route:——SF Sheath Size Catheter——RCA JR ——LCA JL Contrast——Ionic Complications——Nil Hemodynamic Status Aortic Pressure(S/D/M)——130/80/mmHg

Higher than normal. This would suggest coronary disease, hypertension, and or MetS. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Post 18 mmHg EF 45 % LV angiography done in RAO view and shows RWMA Apical, Inferior segment Hypokinetic. Other segment normal. Coronary Angiography Summary Triple Vessel Disease LAD mid segment stenosis , LCx mid segment stenosis, RCA proximal segment stenosis, proximal segment stenosis, Mild LV Dysfunction Thankyou for you answers

You are welcome. All praises belong to the LORD Whom I love with all my heart, soul, mind and strength Now this is about the works of the four horsemen from the 6th chapter of the Book of Revelation (we are now in the 6th year into the third millenium after the birth of the Son of Man): (1) Crowned rider wielding a bow and riding a white horse: "See you on the other side. It’s not bad. We are just going to sleep." – missive (missile) from one of 12 born-again Christian miners who gave up their lives to save the youngest among them after being trapped by an explosion in a W.Va mine. (2) Rider wielding a sword and riding a fiery red horse: Ariel Sharon, the world’s hope for lasting peace in the middle east, suffers a massive bleeding stroke. Violence and bloodshed in Iraq escalates. U.S. now less likely to pull out of Iraq anytime soon. (3) Rider wielding a set of food scales and riding a black horse: The rate of increase of the number of people worldwide using the 2PD-OMER Approach (which advocates the use of food scales) accelerates with growing worldwide concerns about the obesity epidemic: http://www.HeartMDPhD.com/wtloss.asp Meanwhile, folks like Bob Pastorio who refuse to use this Approach are heard muttering that an omer is not a weight measure but a volume measure somewhere between one and three quarts depending on what the food is and that liquid foods like milk (emulsified oil) and wine should not be counted toward daily intake. (4) Rider on a pale horse given the authority to kill a fourth of the world’s population "by sword, famine and plague, and by the wild beasts of the earth": The H5N1 Avian Flu Pandemic seems to be starting in Turkey: http://tinyurl.com/amj4a Yes, the migratory birds spreading H5N1 virus are wild beasts of the earth. When will the sun "turn black like sackcloth made of goat hair" (Revelation 6:12b) ? It will turn black during the total solar eclipse that will happen **also** in Turkey on Wednesday 03/29/2006 at around 14:00 hrs LT. http://tinyurl.com/dcj7w The order of darkening of the following ancient cities in Turkey: (1) Ephesus (2) Smyrna (3) Pergamum (4) Thyatira (5) Sardis (6) Philadelphia (7) Laodicea Will be the same order that Christ Jesus used to address the seven churches: "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyratira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea." (Revelation 1:11) Would be more than happy to "glow" and chat about this and other things like cardiology, diabetes, cooking and nutrition that interest those following this thread here during the next on-line chat (01/19/06) from 6 to 7 pm EST: http://tinyurl.com/cpayh For those who are put off by the signature, my advance apologies for how the LORD has reshaped me: http://tinyurl.com/bgfqt Prayerfully in Christ’s love, Andrew http://tinyurl.com/b6xwk

Response:

1) Can heart blockage removed without getting operated 2) how can i view angography CD and interpret it 3) are their any test to verify heart blockage other than angiography 4) If my cholestrol was always in control than how come their is blockage ?

Since this was put here for obvious reasons, I guess I’ll indulge it… Question number one: Please see David Rind’s answer, posted on 1/16 Question number two: Unless you are a physician, you can’t interpret it. Question number three: No Question number four: Again, Dr. Rinds answer was quite adequate I thought. OK? G

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I do not get tired of doing work, I am non smoker, non drinker, vegetarian , havebeen taking lots of fruits from decades, I also get regular blood test for cholestrol, trigricides and sugar . and have always got positive results second week of January 2004 i had chest pain and i visited my family doctor immediately he advised me for angiography and on 13th jan 2005 it was diagnosed that i had blockage which was of great concerned. since then i am on control diet no fats, no dairy products, no oils, lots of fruits salads and vegetables, oats….. I have now few questions to ask any help will be highly appreciated 1) Can heart blockage removed without getting operated 2) how can i view angography CD and interpret it 3) are their any test to verify heart blockage other than angiography 4) If my cholestrol was always in control than how come their is blockage ? BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 30-NOV-2004 BLOOD SUGAR——-99.2 MG/DL S.CREATININE——1.2 MG/DL S.URIC ACID——-5.1 MG/DL S. CHOLESTEROL—-188.2 MG/DL S. TRIGLYCERIDES–130.3 MG/DL Prescribed Medicines (Ceruvin 75 mg and Razel 10 mg) Result After Medication BLOOD TEST REPORT AS ON 17-AUG-2005 GLUCOSE (FASTING)——93 MG/DL SERUM CREATININE——-1.0 MG/DL VLDL CHOLESTEROL——-17 MG/DL HEART REPORT Dated 13/01/05 INDICATION: Post MI Evaluation Previous Procedure——None Procedure Details Route:——SF Sheath Size Catheter——RCA JR ——LCA JL Contrast——Ionic Complications——Nil Hemodynamic Status Aortic Pressure(S/D/M)——130/80/mmHg Post 18 mmHg EF 45 % LV angiography done in RAO view and shows RWMA Apical, Inferior segment Hypokinetic. Other segment normal. Coronary Angiography Summary Triple Vessel Disease LAD mid segment stenosis , LCx mid segment stenosis, RCA proximal segment stenosis, proximal segment stenosis, Mild LV Dysfunction Thankyou for you answers Jattinder David Rind is quite right. Also, my sister had a blockage. She seemed the almost the perfect candidate to not have one – though there was some history in our family. I attributed it to anxiety- she had recently had some major problems. There have been some suggestions that anxiety increases the risk of heart attacks. I noticed you posted to an anxiety board. They gave me pictures at my last angioplasty – before and after. One blockage was obvious, the other fuzzy. I’m not sure what good it would do you. You have already suffered mild heart damage due to blockages. That’s what "Mild LV Dsyfunction." means. What kind of operation are they suggesting? If it is a tripple by-pass, you MIGHT be able to talk them into a series of angioplasties with the new drug eluting stents. With the new stents, there is some debate on when to use angioplasty and when to bypass. This is NOT a recommendation. It is a suggestion on something to bring up with your Dr. if your case fits. Bill – not a Dr.

Response:

Just out of curiousity, because I have no knowledge to offer you, release cholesterol into the bloodstream? I ask this because my cholesterol level is far higher than it should be, given that I’ve been a vegetarian for over 30 years. Take care, and good luck, JK, Sharon

I’m not talking about the kind of clothes she wears Look at that stupid girl I’m not talking about the way she combs her hair Look at that stupid girl The way she powders her nose Her vanity shows and it shows She’s the worst thing in this world Well, look at that stupid girl I’m not talking about the way she digs for gold Look at that stupid girl Well, I’m talking about the way she grabs and holds Look at that stupid girl The way she talks about someone else That she don’t even know herself She’s the sickest thing in this world Well, look at that stupid girl Well, I’m sick and tired And I really have my doubts I’ve tried and tried But it never really works out Like a lady in waiting to a virgin queen Look at that stupid girl She bitches ’bout things that she’s never seen Look at that stupid girl It doesn’t matter if she dyes her hair Or the color of the shoes she wears She’s the worst thing in this world Well, look at that stupid girl Shut-up, shut-up, shut-up, shut-up, shut-up Shut-up, shut-up, shut-up, shut-up, shut-up Shut-up, shut-up, shut-up Like a lady in waiting to a virgin queen Look at that stupid girl She bitches ’bout things that she’s never seen Look at that stupid girl She purrs like a pussycat Then she turns ’round and hisses back She’s the sickest thing in this world Look at that stupid girl

Response:

Secondary hypercortisolism as a result of stress? 1: J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2002 Nov;87(11):4872-8. Related Articles, Cited in PMC, Books, LinkOut Comment in: J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2002 Nov;87(11):4869-71. Patients with subclinical Cushing’s syndrome due to adrenal adenoma have increased cardiovascular risk. Tauchmanova L, Rossi R, Biondi B, Pulcrano M, Nuzzo V, Palmieri EA, Fazio S, Lombardi G. Department of Molecular and Clinical Endocrinology and Oncology, University Subclinical Cushing’s syndrome (SCS) is increasingly being reported in incidentally discovered adrenal adenomas; its hallmark is mild autonomous cortisol hyperproduction without specific clinical signs of cortisol excess. Increased prevalence of hypertension, obesity, and impaired glucose tolerance have been described in SCS, but there is no specific study of the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. In this cross-sectional study we assessed the cardiovascular profile in 28 consecutive SCS patients (19 women and 9 men; aged 56 +/- 10.6 yr) compared with 100 controls matched for age, gender, and body mass index. Systolic (P < 0.001) and diastolic (P < 0.005) blood pressures were higher in patients, as were fasting glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides (all P < 0.001), and fibrinogen (P < 0.05). Moreover, the insulin resistance index was increased in patients as was the waist to hip ratio and mean carotid artery intima-media thickness (all P < 0.001). Of the patients, 60.7% had arterial hypertension, 71.4% had lipid abnormalities, 28.6% had impaired glucose tolerance, 35.7% type 2 diabetes mellitus, and 53.6% had abnormalities in hemostatic parameters. Atherosclerotic plaques were more frequent in patients (P < 0.0001). Only 4 (14.3%) patients did not have multiple risk factors for cardiovascular events. Six (21.3%) had clinical evidence of cardiovascular disease; another 11 (39.3%) had cardiovascular abnormalities as revealed by ultrasound scanning of carotid arteries and/or electrocardiogram records. These results strongly suggest that an increased cardiovascular risk profile, similar to that described in overt Cushing’s syndrome, is present in SCS subjects. This finding supports the concept that chronic mild endogenous cortisol excess may have important systemic effects on the human body. PMID: 12414841 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Response:

1) There are really no proven ways to "remove" blockages of coronary arteries. Surgery bypasses the blockages, and stenting opens up the blockages, but in neither case is the blockage removed. Maintaining a very low cholesterol level may, in some people, result in the body slowly decreasing blockages over years. 2) You might be able to get someone to give you a copy of the angiography. I’m not sure what you mean by interpret it — presumably you would need someone with expertise in looking at an angiography to interpret it. 3) Angiography is considered the gold standard test for coronary blockages. Other tests could be done looking for problems, but the angiography is usually the confirmatory test. In the posted report it did not just show multiple blockages. It also showed evidence of a prior heart attack. Unless the people reading the angiography are incompetent, it doesn’t make sense to think about getting some other test. The blockages are almost certainly there. 4) Unfortunately, high cholesterol is just one risk factor for coronary heart disease. A lot of people with normal cholesterol levels develop coronary disease as well. — David Rind

Response:

David Rind is quite right. Also, my sister had a blockage. She seemed the almost the perfect candidate to not have one – though there was some history in our family. I attributed it to anxiety- she had recently had some major problems. There have been some suggestions that anxiety increases the risk of heart attacks. I noticed you posted to an anxiety board. They gave me pictures at my last angioplasty – before and after. One blockage was obvious, the other fuzzy. I’m not sure what good it would do you. You have already suffered mild heart damage due to blockages. That’s what "Mild LV Dsyfunction." means. What kind of operation are they suggesting? If it is a tripple by-pass, you MIGHT be able to talk them into a series of angioplasties with the new drug eluting stents. With the new stents, there is some debate on when to use angioplasty and when to bypass. This is NOT a recommendation. It is a suggestion on something to bring up with your Dr. if your case fits. Bill – not a Dr.

Response:

I cannot answer your questions (engineer, not a medical person) but I can mention some things you should think about: 1. Your Fasting Blood sugar is a bit high. It may be predicting future diabetes. http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&s… 2. If your suspiciously high Fasting Blood sugar is caused by high Insulin Resistance, your past cholesterol history may not have been as "positive’ as you thought. A triglycerides to HDL ratio greater than 3.0 is considered a marker for high Insulin Resistance and small-sized LDL particles. Small-sized LDL is implicated in arterial disease. You are taking a statin (Razel) and controlling your diet , ( ". . . .control diet no fats, no dairy products, no oils,. . ."), but your ratio is 2.48. Mine is 1.3 People with high triglycerides/HDL ratios often reduce their ratios by reducing the amount of carbohydrate in their diet. Metformin has been found useful in people with unfavorable triglycerides and HDL ratios related to high Insulin Resistance. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?holding=npg&cmd=Retriev… bMed&list_uids=1752350&dopt=Abstract 3. Razel is suspected of producing excessive adverse side effects in Asian ethnic groups. If you are such, (India?) you may want to seek a substitute statin, i.e. http://www.doctorndtv.com/FAQ/detailfaq.asp?id=4991 ". . . .Assuming that you do need medicine, one should certainly avoid rosuvastatin (sold under various brand names such as Razel) since it has caused severe adverse effects including rhabdomyolysis (a potentially fatal disorder of muscles). This medicine is known to have more serious side effects in Asian ethnic groups (such as Indians) compared to Caucasians (such as English, Anglo-Saxons). Because of this reason the US Government agency dealing with medicines has ordered the manufacturers to conduct further trials on this drug in Asian communities. Older statins such as atorvastatin (sold under various brand names like Atorva, Liporest) or lovastatin (sold under the brand name of Pro-HDL) are safer and as effective in reducing cholesterol levels. . ." Regards Old Al

Response:

Lupron & Heart Disease

admin — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

Anybody have any reference reading regarding lupron therapy resulting in some coronary artery constriction?

Response:

On December 20, Jerry inquired: Anybody have any reference reading regarding lupron therapy resulting in some coronary artery constriction?

No. Checking the package insert for the 30-mg four-month depot says this regarding cardiovascular problems: < 5% of patients reported "atrial fibrillation, deep thrombophlebitis, hypertension." However: hyperlipidemia (increased LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides and total cholesterol) have been reported. TAP Pharmaceuticals USA distributor, says that its "relationship to drug treatment is difficult to assess in this population." Uh huh. So far as I know, the cholesterol matter is typical of every LHRH agonist tx. Well, that’s an argument for another day. I recommend a Google search on Lupron. And I’d love to know what prompted this question. Regards, Steve J – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

I don’t have any information on this, but I’m wondering if the negative side effects of Lupron can be counteracted to some degree by working on them. Some people have reported overcoming hot flashes with megace. I personally experienced tiredness – which I battled with rest and exercise, and joint pain – which I successfully overcame with exercise. Maybe hypertension and elevated cholesterol will also respond to the normal diet and exercise treatments, or even statins if necessary, that are used to treat these conditions in the absence of Lupron. Of course that’s not to say that side effects can always be easily overcome. Ron Figueroa has had a real battle with weakness and tiredness induced by his ADT. Alan

Response:

(snip) For the most part, the SEs can be mitigated. See the PCRI website and search on "androgen deprivation syndrome." For hot flashes I selected Depo Sub-Q Provera (medroxyprogesterone, a female hormone), two 102 mg injections, one in each thigh over three months ago. Worked like a charm. From being awakened six times per night (plus daytime instances) I went to zero hot flashes. It’s still working. I understand that it is not considered suitable for everyone. Medroxyprogesterone is metabolized to testosterone, so a man should have a very low PSA (such as my <0.01) before using it. I did see a PSA rise to 0.02, which then settled back to 0.01. I’m delighted. Regards, Steve J "He is the best physician who is the most ingenious inspirer of hope." — Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Response:

Hi All…. Been without news groups for a bit. But have a free news server at the moment. For those that don’t know, Ron went on Zoladex and Casodex in late October of 2004 due to a fast rising PSA. In January 2005, his PSA was undetectible. He was fine other than hot flashes for which he took Megace and that worked. But starting in May of 2005, his legs got very weak and he was retaining water. He got progressively weaker (legs mainly) over the summer and we finally fired the oncologist out here who swore none of his 200 ADT patients had these side effects…..which was a blatant lie!! 3 other doctors in this City contradicted him. Plus I knew one other patient personally and he was in worse shape than Ron with the weakness in the legs and extreme fatigue. We went back to Sunnybrook Hospital’s Cancer Care Centre Nov. 4th and Dr. Loblaw spent 1.5 hours with us explaining that "yes….most of his ADT patients had this sort of reaction" and how it affected them. He offered intermittent hormone therapy as a solution, but Ron didn’t know much about that and was afraid to try it, so he got another Zoladex shot. Shortly thereafter, I sat him down and explained the *intermittent HT* to him and he agreed that this was obviously better. His mood perked up when he made that decision. Just today I called the hospital and he spoke to Dr. Loblaw, who told him to stop the Casodex completely. I hadn’t even thought to ask. So we are just going to watch his PSA and deal with it that way. His next shot would have been Feb. 4th. Ron refinished 13 pieces of antique furniture last February and March, which required a lot of strength. It took about 7 months for the weakness to show up. All of his various blood tests showed nothing out of the ordinary in October. Haemoglobin was a bit low (126), but a more detailed test showed nothing wrong. Testosterone was 0.1…..PSA below 0.02 which is where it has been since a year ago. Quality of life IS more important to him after 7 months of this. But it had to be his decision. Am I nervous? Somewhat. But I was way more upset at how depressed and weak he was. Hormone therapy is a good thing, but he is hoping that a break from it will allow him to regain some muscle strength. He knows that it has kept the cancer from growing, but at a huge cost. So that is where it is at. It is painfully obvious to everyone just how weak he is and our neighbours and friends have been wonderfully supportive. This has been one tough year for both of us. Our daughter just arrived for 2 weeks and she is "good medicine" for him…..and me too. I have never allowed myself the luxury of a good cry for a year because I didn’t want to upset him. Today I had that luxury when he was out and Elayne just hugged and held me when I broke down. She is a very strong, perceptive, loving young lady and I sure needed that. Merry Christmas to all of you and may 2006 be better for everyone here, and also for their wives and children. Best….Heather (and Ron & Elayne)

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Of course that’s not to say that side effects can always be easily overcome. Ron Figueroa has had a real battle with weakness and tiredness induced by his ADT. Alan

Response:

Heather, Thanks so much for the update. My heart goes out to you and Ron. Here’s hoping the change in treatment brings you both some relief. All the best this holiday season, Dan — PSA = 2.2 , 03/05/2003 Biopsy, 11/10/2004, G9(5+4) (multiple cores) (6 of 8 cores positive), T1C Casodex (daily), begin. 11/16/2004 Zoladex, 12/23/2004, 03/10/2005, 06/14/2005, 09/14/2005, 12/14/2005 PSA, 0.1, <0.1, <0.1, <0.1

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi All…. Been without news groups for a bit. But have a free news server at the moment. For those that don’t know, Ron went on Zoladex and Casodex in late October of 2004 due to a fast rising PSA. In January 2005, his PSA was undetectible. He was fine other than hot flashes for which he took Megace and that worked. But starting in May of 2005, his legs got very weak and he was retaining water. He got progressively weaker (legs mainly) over the summer and we finally fired the oncologist out here who swore none of his 200 ADT patients had these side effects…..which was a blatant lie!! 3 other doctors in this City contradicted him. Plus I knew one other patient personally and he was in worse shape than Ron with the weakness in the legs and extreme fatigue. We went back to Sunnybrook Hospital’s Cancer Care Centre Nov. 4th and Dr. Loblaw spent 1.5 hours with us explaining that "yes….most of his ADT patients had this sort of reaction" and how it affected them. He offered intermittent hormone therapy as a solution, but Ron didn’t know much about that and was afraid to try it, so he got another Zoladex shot. Shortly thereafter, I sat him down and explained the *intermittent HT* to him and he agreed that this was obviously better. His mood perked up when he made that decision. Just today I called the hospital and he spoke to Dr. Loblaw, who told him to stop the Casodex completely. I hadn’t even thought to ask. So we are just going to watch his PSA and deal with it that way. His next shot would have been Feb. 4th. Ron refinished 13 pieces of antique furniture last February and March, which required a lot of strength. It took about 7 months for the weakness to show up. All of his various blood tests showed nothing out of the ordinary in October. Haemoglobin was a bit low (126), but a more detailed test showed nothing wrong. Testosterone was 0.1…..PSA below 0.02 which is where it has been since a year ago. Quality of life IS more important to him after 7 months of this. But it had to be his decision. Am I nervous? Somewhat. But I was way more upset at how depressed and weak he was. Hormone therapy is a good thing, but he is hoping that a break from it will allow him to regain some muscle strength. He knows that it has kept the cancer from growing, but at a huge cost. So that is where it is at. It is painfully obvious to everyone just how weak he is and our neighbours and friends have been wonderfully supportive. This has been one tough year for both of us. Our daughter just arrived for 2 weeks and she is "good medicine" for him…..and me too. I have never allowed myself the luxury of a good cry for a year because I didn’t want to upset him. Today I had that luxury when he was out and Elayne just hugged and held me when I broke down. She is a very strong, perceptive, loving young lady and I sure needed that. Merry Christmas to all of you and may 2006 be better for everyone here, and also for their wives and children. Best….Heather (and Ron & Elayne) Of course that’s not to say that side effects can always be easily overcome. Ron Figueroa has had a real battle with weakness and tiredness induced by his ADT. Alan

Response:

… Merry Christmas to all of you and may 2006 be better for everyone here, and also for their wives and children. Best….Heather (and Ron & Elayne)

And Merry Christmas to the three of you, and to all on this newsgroup. May there be many more happy and healthy years for us all. Alan

Response:

Natural healing

admin — Fri, 30 Sep 2005 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

I rarely brush my teeth, in hopes that any dental problems that arise because of that will heal themselves. I sometimes believe that if I am harmonious with bacteria, that it will do my body a minimum of harm. After all, bacteria is one of God’s living things. Perhaps the bacteria could even nourish me, if I were to establish a symbiotic relationship with it. If bacteria has consciousness, that’s not impossible to do. PESTILENCE. Daniel Urtiz Constantine Catholics, unite against the police.

Response:

Daniel Your teeth will rot if you don’t brush them. The bacteria that accumulates from not flossing takes years off your life because it makes you more vulnerable to infection, even heart disease. Visit a dental hygienist, they have a lot of useful cleaning tips. penguin

Response:

On Sat, 1 Oct 2005 00:05:52 -0700, kol…@webtv.net (Penguin A) wrote: >Daniel >Your teeth will rot if you don’t brush them. The bacteria that >accumulates from not flossing takes years off your life because it makes >you more vulnerable to infection, even heart disease. >Visit a dental hygienist, they have a lot of useful cleaning tips. >penguin

I quit flossing when I became ill. I brush, however. I’ve never heard that "not flossing" takes years off your life. For my sake and probably others here, I hope you got it wrong, P! Buther Boy — Remove the word Spam from my e-mail to contact me… http://www.PrivacySig.com/SIGbutherboySpam-gmail-black.png ~

Response:

Penguin, I’m inclined to believe that not all bacteria is bad. I find it hard to believe that not brushing your teeth can result in heart disease. Daniel Urtiz Constantine Catholics, unite against the police.

Response:

Eat your own waste products-that may help

Response:

Endoftha, Astronauts eat their own waste products. Daniel Urtiz Constantine Catholics, unite against the police.

Response:

Buther Boy Yes, it’s true about not flossing! I saw it on Oprah and my dental hygenist told me. The bacteria can get into your blood stream and cause heart disease. Sounds incredible but it’s true! You know it’s true if it was on Oprah! penguin

Response:

Daniel There are some good bacteria like lacto acidophilus and lacto bacillus. They are found in yogurt and are good for your digestive system. It’s not good to leave them on your teeth though. penguin

Response:

Penguin, I rarely brush my teeth. I’ll take my chances. I do’t believe proper oral hygiene will enhance my life by very many years. Daniel Urtiz Constantine Catholics, unite against the police.

Response:

Lothar Flossing is taking a plastic string or tape and cleaning between the teeth. penguin

Response:

Was it on Jerry Springer? I know its the shiznit if its on his show- although props to the O. "I am trying to talk yankee!!:)"

Response:

Omega-3

admin — Tue, 27 Sep 2005 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

Hi Rich, You do need an Omega 3 supplement. I distribute a brillant product..

Don’t spam here. Fish and nuts have Omega 3

Response:

Hi Rich, You do need an Omega 3 supplement. I distribute a brillant product.. there is no aftertaste and it will get your omega 3 balance up to where it should be. Go to www.a1-loseweightnow.com/shoponline for more information. Good luck

Response:

A supplement (I like greens+) might be your best bet. Note the difference between animal and plant sources of 03: Although eating (sufficent) plant sources of Omega3 should (in theory) have the same benefits, I believe most (all) of the studies showing benefit are based on 03 extraction from fish. —- What is the difference between plant- and animal-source omega-3s? At the core of both plant- and animal-source omega-3s is a cluster of molecules called LNA. This alpha-linolenic acid is a long-chain fatty acid that comes mainly from plant foods like walnuts, flaxseed, and green leafy vegetables. When your body absorbs fats containing LNA, enzymes convert some of it into longer, more highly polyunsaturated omega-3s called EPA and DHA. These desirable omega-3s are more beneficial to your health, but your body needs about ten LNAs to make one EPA. Fish, on the other hand, contains little LNA, but is rich in EPA and DHA. Eating fish simply means that your body doesn

Microsoft tackles weighty issues: 800 workers, 26,000 lbs. lost

admin — Tue, 20 Sep 2005 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

Tuesday, September 20, 2005 By ANGELA GALLOWAY SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER REPORTER Tony Seeley knew he was in trouble the day his doctor told him he had the body of a healthy 62-year-old man. For years, Seeley struggled with all the familiar weight-loss themes: fad diets, bad eating habits, discouragement. But not long after that day at his doctor’s office, Seeley found his breakthrough thanks to an unlikely partner: his boss. "It was a revelation," Seeley said. "I lost 130 pounds, and I did it in 10 months." Seeley was among nearly 800 Microsoft Corp. employees who have shed about 26,000 pounds through an exceptionally intensive weight-management program offered by the company. While Microsoft takes the benefit to unusually extended levels, health policy insiders say a trend is emerging among employers and insurers to offer comprehensive weight-management programs, even as both sides scramble to trim other benefits to slow the double-digit growth in health care costs. We’re not talking gym memberships or diet clubs. These are long-term, doctor-driven, multifaceted programs for the seriously overweight or obese that can run $10,000 or more and sometimes lead to gastric-bypass surgery. Microsoft was among the nation’s first companies to roll out such a program, starting with smaller pilot groups in 1999. Early last year, Starbucks Corp. began offering a package to its workers in the Puget Sound area. The programs are similar at both companies: integration of a fitness regimen with dietary and psychological counseling, all the while under the oversight of a medical doctor trained in weight-loss management. Microsoft and Starbucks both say they’ve found indications that such offerings pay off for their companies’ bottom lines. Both cap lifetime benefits and offer them only to employees, partners and dependents who meet certain obesity and health condition criteria. Both companies have contracts with the same clinic group, although Microsoft has since added a second. Both require workers pitch in 20 percent of the costs. "You give them a check for $3,500 and they give you a plastic water bottle," said Seeley, a program manager. "Ten months later, I’m running 5K runs in downtown Seattle. "I would have paid $20,000 out of my own pocket to do this program." The key? Seeley offered an answer that amounted to "all of the above." An exercise regime in a gym friendly to the overweight meant a "huge change" in his lifestyle. The dietary advice revolutionized his understanding of food, especially foods high in carbohydrates such as white rice and pasta. And the support services removed guilt, leaving room for optimism. "You find out you’re not a freak and you’re not weird and everyone else is having the same frustrations," Seeley said of the program he joined two years ago. To this day, he still exercises several times a week, he said. "I didn’t find it hard — that’s the weirdest thing." Last month, insurer Premera Blue Cross unveiled a more moderate menu of options for employers to consider as add-ons. Aetna offers comprehensive "custom" products to large businesses willing to pay for them, and began broad offerings of a slimmer "tiered" package of weight-management benefits earlier this year. Microsoft recently calculated that 774 participants from July 2003 to August 2004 lost an average of roughly 9 percent of their weight, said Tom McPherson, senior benefits manager for Microsoft, which began offering the benefit companywide two years ago and requires participants to enroll for a minimum of six months. Of those who did, 50 had bariatric, or weight loss, surgery. Many saw substantial reductions in their blood pressure and cholesterol levels, without the need for medications, McPherson said. "Many of the people that enter the program haven’t accessed medical care for a while," McPherson added. Geoff Thomas, a Microsoft technical support analyst, credits his weight loss for eliminating his grueling migraines — dramatically cutting his sick days and improving his productivity. In recent years, Thomas dropped from more than 480 pounds to a low of 280. He’s now back up to about 320, but he’s confident he can lose that and more. "What I needed was a push and since I had responsibility to (a) trainer, I made a commitment to them," Thomas said. "It was like I was doing it for him as well as me." Like Seeley, Thomas says each aspect of the program led to his success: a gym without pressure to look good, accountability to a trainer, a specialized doctor and behavioral counseling. "Instead of keeping things all inside me and bottled up, I could actually discuss (food issues)," Thomas said. "There’s actually a lot of psychological work that is going on while you are losing weight." Thomas has taken up trail riding on his bicycle, hockey and in-line skating. "I used to pretty much do nothing," said Thomas, whose social life was largely limited to science fiction and other television programs. As soon as he heals from an injury, Thomas said, he plans to resume teaching skating. "Teaching is just one of the best ways in the world to relate to people." At Starbucks, 41 participants have seen the program through, said Annette King, director of benefits for the company. On average, the participants lost about 20 pounds. Although the data are still preliminary, King said her company has seen substantial reductions in the use of medications for arthritis, back pain and gastroesophageal reflux disease. "We would like to get several years’ experience on how long those participants maintained their weight loss," King said. Still, McPherson said it’s only a matter of time before other companies see the evidence they need to jump in. "It’s very difficult once you roll out a benefit to roll it back, so I think companies are waiting," he said. Last summer, the federal government removed language in Medicare policy that stated obesity was not an illness, opening the door for some Medicare clients to receive anti-obesity treatments, according to Amy Winterfeld, a health policy analyst with the National Conference of State Legislatures. Medicaid and private insurers often mimic Medicare policy, she said. Today, Medicaid programs for the poor and disabled in Washington and nearly all other states pay for weight-loss surgery for qualified patients, according to a report by Winterfeld. Several states require that insurers cover care for the morbidly obese. An unusual local clinical group called Sound Health Solutions has helped put local employers on the innovative edge of this trend. Microsoft was among the first clients of the company, which was established nearly a decade ago by two doctors specializing in internal medicine. "We never really had the time or the resources really to be able to address obesity itself," said Dr. Frances Gough, one of the founders. "So we stepped away from a traditional clinical practice to put together an integrated program." In recent years, Gough said, interest has begun to percolate and some companies are willing to help pay for intensive weight-loss programs. Once the federal government starts covering obesity in general, such programs won’t be anomalies for long, said Gough’s partner, Dr. Teresa Girolami. "When that happens, I think you’ll see a big shift in the insurance industry." DETAILS Here’s a quick look at weight-management services offered to Microsoft employees: Eligibility: The employee must have a body mass index of at least 30, or at least 27 with two or more of the following conditions: congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension. (Body mass index is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both men and women. An index of more than 30 is considered obese.) Medically supervised services include an intensive phase involving at least 10 sessions with a physician, personal fitness trainer, dietitian and behavioral therapist. That’s followed by three months of follow-up and maintenance with professionals on a less rigorous but still-regular schedule. Success: In a one-year period, nearly 800 participants lost a total of about 26,000 pounds. The average weight loss was 30 pounds per person. The number of participants with high cholesterol fell by 50 percent, and the number with high blood pressure fell by 30 percent. Source: National Institute of Health Care Management

Response:

Tuesday, September 20, 2005 By ANGELA GALLOWAY SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER REPORTER

This creates a weird incentive for employees. If you are trudging along at Microsoft, with a BMI of say, 28, with none of the qualifying conditions, and have the kind of issues that would make you want to lose weight…. You might have an incentive to gain the 10-30 lbs to push you up over 30 BMI, so you can get in the program, have the company pick up 80% of the tab, and get yourself to something more like a BMI of 16. Insane? We’re talking a potential $8000 of benefits, and likely a more flexible work schedule to accomodate the exercise and support portions. So, I gain 20 lbs, and get $8,000 in prizes and my work schedule probably doesn’t decrease, but I get some breaks. Not bad. -Hollywood, who is starting to think companies are trimming benefits so they can understand the incentives of their pay and benefit structure fully (not really).

Response:

this again proves that people can be paid to do anything,even lose weight.

The health and social benefits should be incentive enough to lose weight.

Response:

I think you’re missing it. If you weigh 250, and are BMI 29, you get nothing. If you gain 10 lbs, you get the full benefit, and, if you rapid gain the 10 (think things that make you hold water), you can probably rapid lose it, and keep your benefit, since they probably don’t cut it when you go from BMI 30 to 29. If you’re looking at 50+ what’s another 10. At 250, it’s less than 5% of your total weight. Do I think Microsoft or Starbucks are being dumb here? No. Actually spending on employees in most cases improves the bottom line through increased productivity/decreased payouts. Look at CostCo and compare/contrast with Sam’s Club. You can even get a cost advantage by giving more to your employees (Average wage at CostCo is like $18, vs min wage at Sam’s, CostCo actually has fewer employee expenses due to factors like retention and productivity). Good thing for these companies. We will see what most of America’s Corporate sector does. Probably not follow suit. And they wonder why China is going to kick their asses. -Hollywood – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – this again proves that people can be paid to do anything,even lose weight. Do you remember that episode from "The Simpsons" where Homer gains weight to be able to work from home? Sure there are people who will gain 30lbs in order to be paid to lose 100lbs but most people are not really that stupid or that self destructive.I think it is a step forward in the right direction that these companies are taking a proactive role in improving the quality of life for their employees.After all sitting in front of a computer screen all day leads to massive bum and tum spread,healthy people are more productive and less disgruntled and its good PR that the management cares about its gargantuan grunts. The CEO and executives might be able to afford anti obesity treatments out of pocket but most of the run of the mill employees cannot pay $ 20,000 for these programs. Now if only they can do something about the lousy cafeteria food.

Response:

this again proves that people can be paid to do anything,even lose weight. Do you remember that episode from "The Simpsons" where Homer gains weight to be able to work from home? Sure there are people who will gain 30lbs in order to be paid to lose 100lbs but most people are not really that stupid or that self destructive.I think it is a step forward in the right direction that these companies are taking a proactive role in improving the quality of life for their employees.After all sitting in front of a computer screen all day leads to massive bum and tum spread,healthy people are more productive and less disgruntled and its good PR that the management cares about its gargantuan grunts. The CEO and executives might be able to afford anti obesity treatments out of pocket but most of the run of the mill employees cannot pay $ 20,000 for these programs. Now if only they can do something about the lousy cafeteria food.

Response:

What does a basic blood test cover?

admin — Sat, 03 Sep 2005 05:00:00 +0000

Question:

Without knowing exactly what kind of test you had, it is impossible to answer this. However, you might find some information here about the basic CHEM 7 test: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003462.htm Or: http://tinyurl.com/9tl6p A more complete test is the CHEM 20: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003468.htm Or: http://tinyurl.com/dh2wq This is a link to another site discussing these tests. It has links to definitions of each of the sub-tests, what they test for and what they mean: http://my.webmd.com/hw/lab_tests/tu6207.asp IANA doctor, and I don’t know whether either of these is what you had. But these are common, and may give you an idea what you might be seeing when you get your results. (And be sure to ask for a print-out of the results. You paid for them [or someone did for you], and they are yours to take to whatever health care provider you want.) If you know the exact test you had, you can use the web sites above to follow up for yourself. — Tom McDonald http://ahwhatdoiknow.blogspot.com/

Response:

I had a physical last month which found nothing wrong (but then again my friend Ben who passed recently also had one which also found little wrong with him). So to be safe I had some basic blood tests done. I was told I would be contacted in 2-3 days if there were any major problems, but I was not contacted. Once this hospital got my file mixed up with someone else (who was in grave danger) so they called me on a saturday and said I had to urgently come and see them ASAP. So I know that this being saturday and me not hearing from them, must mean that I am in no danger nor threat to my health. However their mistake 4 months ago could have led to the death of the other patient, if I had not contacted them and told them of their mistake, for I was not experiencing any of the symptoms of someone with such a high blood sugar level would be. So what does the basic blood test cover? Does it only look for blood sugar, heart, liver, and cholesteral issues? I strive to stay away from fast food, which according to the film SuperSize me, and the book Fast Food Nation will prolong my health. Thanks, John — BA Church Education Ministries AS Business/IT specialist CERM-Church Education Resource http://johnw.freeshell.org/bible/ http://johnw.freeshell.org/bible/unbeliever_list.htm 2 Tim 4:2 AIM: Crucifyself03

Response:

1) Calm down. Take a pill or read your favorite scripture. 2) Be advised of this basic truth: the medical system is like a giant brain which thinks about you only when you’re sitting directly in front of it. Sort of like the Wizard of Oz. Don’t expect them to call you. Make an appointment to go and sit in front of The Machine, put your money in the slot, and Dr Fortuna will give you your answer. 3) Do not complain that the above is "unfair." Not unless you sent a check to cover the phone call time, pro-rated at $200/hr. That’s what a physician has to generate to run an office. SBH

Response:

So the big fat profits are made by discarding the test from people that look OK and not paying the lab bill or transport costs for the tests?. Now I understand. How come I pay $38 for a visit and he sees 20 paytients per hour when I see my GP? Something doesn’t add up from the math I studied for 27 years, but then medical school retrains us in math. I forgot.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I had a physical last month which found nothing wrong (but then again my friend Ben who passed recently also had one which also found little wrong with him). So to be safe I had some basic blood tests done. I was told I would be contacted in 2-3 days if there were any major problems, but I was not contacted. Once this hospital got my file mixed up with someone else (who was in grave danger) so they called me on a saturday and said I had to urgently come and see them ASAP. So I know that this being saturday and me not hearing from them, must mean that I am in no danger nor threat to my health. However their mistake 4 months ago could have led to the death of the other patient, if I had not contacted them and told them of their mistake, for I was not experiencing any of the symptoms of someone with such a high blood sugar level would be. So what does the basic blood test cover? Does it only look for blood sugar, heart, liver, and cholesteral issues? I strive to stay away from fast food, which according to the film SuperSize me, and the book Fast Food Nation will prolong my health. Thanks, John 1) Calm down. Take a pill or read your favorite scripture. 2) Be advised of this basic truth: the medical system is like a giant brain which thinks about you only when you’re sitting directly in front of it. Sort of like the Wizard of Oz. Don’t expect them to call you. Make an appointment to go and sit in front of The Machine, put your money in the slot, and Dr Fortuna will give you your answer. 3) Do not complain that the above is "unfair." Not unless you sent a check to cover the phone call time, pro-rated at $200/hr. That’s what a physician has to generate to run an office. SBH

Response:

So the big fat profits are made by discarding the test from people that look OK and not paying the lab bill or transport costs for the tests?. Now I understand.

No, you don’t. The tests were done. Nobody has the time or the money to explain them to you, unless you’re willing to pay for it. How come I pay $38 for a visit and he sees 20 paytients per hour when I see my GP? Something doesn’t add up from the math I studied for 27 years, but then medical school retrains us in math. I forgot.

If your doctor sees 20 patients an hour it must be group therapy. Get a grip on reality. SBH PS. Is this Canada you’re talking about?? That also might explain 3 minutes per patient….

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I had a physical last month which found nothing wrong (but then again my friend Ben who passed recently also had one which also found little wrong with him). So to be safe I had some basic blood tests done. I was told I would be contacted in 2-3 days if there were any major problems, but I was not contacted. Once this hospital got my file mixed up with someone else (who was in grave danger) so they called me on a saturday and said I had to urgently come and see them ASAP. So I know that this being saturday and me not hearing from them, must mean that I am in no danger nor threat to my health. However their mistake 4 months ago could have led to the death of the other patient, if I had not contacted them and told them of their mistake, for I was not experiencing any of the symptoms of someone with such a high blood sugar level would be. So what does the basic blood test cover? Does it only look for blood sugar, heart, liver, and cholesteral issues? I strive to stay away from fast food, which according to the film SuperSize me, and the book Fast Food Nation will prolong my health. Without knowing exactly what kind of test you had, it is impossible to answer this. However, you might find some information here about the basic CHEM 7 test: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003462.htm Or: http://tinyurl.com/9tl6p A more complete test is the CHEM 20: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003468.htm Or: http://tinyurl.com/dh2wq This is a link to another site discussing these tests. It has links to definitions of each of the sub-tests, what they test for and what they mean: http://my.webmd.com/hw/lab_tests/tu6207.asp IANA doctor, and I don’t know whether either of these is what you had. But these are common, and may give you an idea what you might be seeing when you get your results. (And be sure to ask for a print-out of the results. You paid for them [or someone did for you], and they are yours to take to whatever health care provider you want.) If you know the exact test you had, you can use the web sites above to follow up for yourself.

All should remember that 100,000 people are killed (not just die) by incorrect medication due to incorrect tests. Don’t let that bother anyone. If one is paying for their own blood test they should have a few things checked. It requires two tests, one being a fasting test. 1. Triglycerides 2. Cholesterol 3. Homeocysteins 4. PSA (prostate) 5. Testosterone 6. Blood sugar (tolerance and recovery) 7. Liver and Kidney enzymes. 8. Co Q10 To name a few.

Response:

If one is paying for their own blood test they should have a few things checked. It requires two tests, one being a fasting test. 1. Triglycerides 2. Cholesterol 3. Homeocysteins 4. PSA (prostate) 5. Testosterone 6. Blood sugar (tolerance and recovery) 7. Liver and Kidney enzymes. 8. Co Q10 To name a few.

Kidney enzymes?? What are you doing to do with blood sugar tolerance information? What are you going to do with CoQ10 levels? All they do is tell you your heart disease risk is high if they’re high, and low if low. But they don’t add any info (that we know of) that you don’t get off the lipid panel. SBH

Response:

was told I would be contacted in 2-3 days if there were any major problems, but I was not contacted.

You are the consumer are you NOT? Either you or your insurance carrier is paying for the blood tests. Yet, it is your doctor who owns the test results. They don’t even bother to give you a copy of them. Don’t you see something wrong here? You have my condolences.

Response:

One patient every three minutes is just about the right amount of time it takes to tell his patients to eat according to his blood type. You already know your blood type so why do you want to see him for?

Response:

It’s the only one I can get unless I move another 200 miles

Pizza Girl this site may help you. http://www.labtestsonline.org/ Zee – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How come I pay $38 for a visit and he sees 20 paytients per hour when I see my GP? Man, that’s a shity doctor you have there…

Response:

It’s the only one I can get unless I move another 200 miles

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How come I pay $38 for a visit and he sees 20 paytients per hour when I see my GP? Man, that’s a shity doctor you have there…