New thoughts on a serious medical issue

Recently, new guidelines were published on the management of an old medical problem, hypertension.  High blood pressure is responsible for strokes and heart attacks across all strata of the population.  With these guidelines, physicians will try to maintain tighter, healthier, control to help their patients.  Here is a video from MedPage Today where I was asked to comment on this new method of blood pressure management.

Other Voices on the BP Guidelines

Do you have to blow off the candles?

Of all the things to fear in this world, are germs spread by blowing out birthday candles high on the list?  Apparently, to some people, they are!  Here is a look at the question from the NBC Today Show website, where I join with the voices of reason to protect this time honored tradition.

Does blowing out birthday cake candles spread germs? Experts say...

Don't forget this on your trips to the mall

Catching colds and other infections may not be on the top of your list when you go shopping, but it may well be the bargain that you bring home that you were not bargaining for!  Turns out that germs on your hands may be the major vector for viruses to gain entry into your system.  While washing your hands with soap and water is clearly the best way to wash your hands, using a hand sanitizer prudently can also help prevent these infections.  Here is a little article from the Health.com magazine with a quote on this topic.

A Foggy Brain Can Get You Down

Brain Fog is not a meteorologic phenomenon, but that feeling of just not being able to think clearly.  It can roll in after sleep deprivation, difficult work, or just for no good reason at all.  Here is a little article, which includes some tips by me, about ways to clear out that foggy feeling.

Why You Have a ‘Foggy Brain’ If You Don’t Get Enough Sleep

When "Take Two and Call Me In The Morning" is not the best advice

It's a cliche, calling the doctor and being told to take a pain reliever, and call in the morning.  But what if you've already taken some?  What if you have been drinking?  What if you have a disease or underlying condition that would be impacted by a particular medication?  Clearly, this simple directive may have far reaching consequences.  Here is a short article from the Self.com site which looks at one such problem.  If there is interest, I will publish another posting with more about pain relievers, cautions and advice.

Why Health Officials Are Warning People Against Taking Too Much Tylenol

Where Is Medicine Today?

I was privileged recently to take part in a documentary dealing with the changing face of medicine.  Told through the aspects of practices across the country, our Lutherville practice, Mercy Personal Physicians at Lutherville, was one of those highlighted.  Yes, I am part of the story with two of my patients.  This hour long documentary is airing on PBS stations around the country, but you can also watch it on their website.

The Doctor Fix

Is Healthy Obesity for real?

Many people have felt that carrying a few extra pounds is good for your health.  Sometimes a few can become a lot, and where one draws the line has been the question.  Recent studies have shown that have a body mass index (BMI) over 25, which is the line between normal weight and overweight, puts one at increased risk for cardiovascular events and other ills.  Here is a little piece that I did for our local NBC Affiliate to highlight this problem.

Woman's Doctor: Healthy obesity