Latest news with #NSAIDs
Los Angeles Times
2 hours ago
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Enhancing Joint Recovery Through Nutrition, Physical Therapy, and Physical Rehabilitation with Dr. Jason Snibbe
Joint recovery is not just about waiting for wounds to heal—it's about actively supporting your body's return to strength and mobility. Focusing on joint recovery can lead to significant improvement in daily life and overall well-being, as the goal is to achieve better mobility and quality of life after surgery. According to orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jason Snibbe, optimizing recovery starts before the surgery even begins—with the right fuel for your body. 'Surgery puts your body under a lot of stress,' explains Dr. Snibbe. 'We've learned that proper nutrition speeds up healing, preserves muscle mass, and even reduces infection risk.' It's no surprise, then, that nutritional support is one of the first areas he addresses with his patients. Here are some of the nutrients he consistently recommends: A balanced diet is essential for recovery, and it's important to remember that supplements are not regulated as food and should not be mistaken for a substitute for real food. Maintaining joint health is crucial after surgery. Supplements like fish oil and curcumin extract may help support joint health and relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and joint pain. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements. And here's a tip you may not expect: 'Even carbo-loading before surgery can help—just like before a marathon,' Dr. Snibbe adds. 'You're giving your body energy reserves so it doesn't start from empty after anesthesia.' A proper diet plays a key role in supporting joint health, bone strength, and overall recovery after surgery. While nutrition fuels recovery internally, movement helps rebuild strength externally. And in Dr. Snibbe's view, this starts early—very early. 'Walking several times a day—starting the day of surgery—is one of the best things you can do,' he emphasizes. Early ambulation helps reduce swelling, lowers the risk of blood clots, and gently begins restoring range of motion. Physical therapy and exercise are essential for reducing stiffness and restoring joint function after surgery or injury. But walking is just the beginning. A structured physical therapy program ensures a safe and progressive recovery. Physical therapists customize exercises to restore strength, balance, coordination, and joint mobility—while also minimizing reinjury. A physical therapist will design specific exercise plans for joints like the shoulder, knees, and hips to optimize recovery and function. A good rehab program will typically include: These techniques aren't just about movement—they're about regaining independence and confidence. Pain can become a barrier to movement, which in turn slows recovery. That's why Dr. Snibbe advocates for multimodal pain management—starting with non-opioid strategies. Effective pain management strategies are designed to relieve pain and prevent the development of chronic pain. 'I often recommend over-the-counter NSAIDs or acetaminophen, combined with topical creams,' he says. These include anti-inflammatory gels or lidocaine-based ointments that target pain locally, providing pain relieving effects and helping to relieve joint pain without systemic side effects. One of the high-tech tools in his recovery toolkit is the GEKO device—a small wearable that stimulates the lower leg muscles to boost circulation and prevent swelling. 'Swelling slows everything down. Controlling it means faster motion, less pain, and a quicker return to function,' Dr. Snibbe notes. Other home-friendly options like heating pads can help relax tense muscles and soothe aching joints during the early days of recovery. In certain cases, Dr. Snibbe uses regenerative medicine techniques to accelerate healing—especially for joint and tendon injuries. Advanced therapies such as PRP and BMAC may be used alongside or after joint replacement surgery, total joint replacement, or other surgical procedures to support the recovery process. These treatments can help patients with arthritis, joint inflammation, or a damaged joint, and may be especially important for weight bearing joints like the hip or knee. It is important to be aware of potential complications following a surgical procedure, such as infection or joint inflammation, and to consult a doctor about treatment options and possible interactions with other medications. Two therapies he frequently employs are: These advanced therapies are part of a growing field of orthobiologics, offering nonsurgical options for patients looking to recover faster and stronger from soft tissue injuries [1]. The goal of joint replacement surgery is to restore function as close to the natural joint as possible, with artificial joints designed to mimic the movement and stability of the original. For example, total knee replacement surgery is a procedure that may benefit from advanced recovery therapies to optimize outcomes. Successful recovery can allow patients to return to activities like martial arts and other high-impact sports. During the recovery process, it is important to monitor for complications such as joint inflammation or issues related to inflammatory arthritis to ensure the best possible results. When combined with traditional rehab and proper nutrition, these treatments offer a well-rounded, patient-first approach to recovery. To explore Dr. Jason Snibbe's approach to orthopedic surgery, innovative techniques, and patient-centered care, visit or follow him on Instagram @drjasonsnibbe for expert insights and updates. [1] Kovacevic, D., Suriani, R. J., Jr, Levine, W. N., & Thomopoulos, S. (2022). Augmentation of Rotator Cuff Healing With Orthobiologics. The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 30(5), e508–e516.
Hindustan Times
15 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Nephrologists bust 7 common myths about kidney disease: Is it actually preventable to is dialysis inevitable
According to the US-based National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), chronic kidney disease means that the kidneys are damaged and can't filter blood as they should. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Saiprasad Sahoo, senior consultant – nephrology, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, shared that when it comes to maintaining kidney health, there are several myths that prevent people from taking the right steps to protect their kidneys. Also read | Do you overuse paracetamol? Urologist says it can increase kidney cancer risk; know these 10 everyday habits to avoid Dr Sahoo said, 'Kidneys are the silent warriors of the body – they filter waste, regulate electrolyte balance and blood pressure (BP), and keep us healthy. However, kidneys are susceptible to damage from various factors like poor diet, lifestyle habits, and underlying health conditions. Apart from lifestyle factors, kidney disease is also aggravated by known risk factors like diabetes and high blood pressure.' He added that to maintain kidney health, make conscious dietary choices and healthy lifestyle habits: 'Track your health parameters, eat good food, stay hydrated, avoid smoking, and manage your stress to ensure that your kidneys remain functional for a long time.' According to Dr Maria Bethsaida Manual, consultant, nephrology, and transplant physician, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, there are several myths surrounding kidney disease that 'lead to confusion, and delayed diagnosis and treatment'. Dr Sahoo and Dr Manual shared a bunch of myths they wish you would stop believing: 1. 'One such myth is that only the elderly are at risk of kidney disease. In reality, kidney issues can affect people of all ages, especially those with diabetes, high BP, or a family history of kidney issues,' Dr Sahoo said. 2. Does drinking water prevent kidney disease? According to Dr Manual: 'Staying hydrated is important to kidney health, but in some kidney diseases, such as End-Stage Renal Disease or Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 5, overhydration can be harmful.' 3. Dr Manual said that people think no symptoms mean the kidneys are fine. 'Kidney disease progresses silently, which means there are no symptoms until significant damage has already occurred,' she said. 4. 'Another popular belief is that herbal products can cure kidney disease. However, many herbal remedies contain unregulated and toxic substances that may be harmful to the kidneys. Therefore, please visit your doctor before using them exclusively,' Dr Sahoo said. 5. He added, 'Many people think that painkillers are harmless. But not many realise that overuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can damage the kidneys in people with existing risk factors.' 6. Another myth is that dialysis is inevitable if you have kidney disease. However, according to Dr Manual, 'Not all patients progress to ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease). Many patients can maintain stable kidney function for years with proper lifestyle and medical treatment.' 7. Many also think that kidney disease is not preventable. Reacting to which, Dr Manual said, 'While not all forms are preventable, healthy lifestyle changes like controlling BP, blood glucose, and staying active gradually reduce the risk of disease progression.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
The 5 common drugs in your medicine cabinet ‘that increase your risk of killer cancer' in hot weather – are you at risk?
THE sun is blazing and you're doing everything right, slathering on suncream, grabbing your shades and hat, and staying out of the heat. But a hidden danger could be lurking much closer to home, inside your 3 Some medicines in your bathroom cabinet are making your skin far more vulnerable to the sun Credit: Getty 3 Worryingly, some of the worst offenders are probably already part of your daily routine Credit: Getty Experts warn that some everyday It comes as the Met Office revealed Brits will bask in a heatwave this weekend, with temperatures set to hit 30C within days. Earlier this year, a new study warned that 2.6 million women on HRT could be at risk in scorching temperatures, which could turn the vital drug into a serious health concern. The key ingredient in most HRT meds, oestrogen, significantly raises the risk of skin cancer, the Swedish scientists warned. The study, published in And they're not the only drugs; antibiotics, Some medicines can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, pharmacist Thorrun Govind tells Sun Health. She explains: 'This is a reaction known as photosensitivity. 'It happens when a drug causes your skin to react more strongly to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.' These drugs can damage the skin in two ways. Mum who nearly died after falling sick in Spain issues warning after anti-sickness pills left her 'acting possessed' She adds: 'Either they absorb UV light and become chemically reactive, damaging skin cells - a process called phototoxicity. 'Or UV light alters the drug, triggering the immune system to attack it as a threat, which causes inflammation and rashes. This is known as a photoallergic reaction.' Worryingly, some of the worst offenders are probably already part of your daily routine. The 5 common medicines that could increase your risk of skin cancer ... 1. IBUPROFEN But this common drug can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. 'Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can lead to phototoxic reactions, especially when taken in high doses or combined with sun exposure,' Thorrun says. This means you're more likely to experience redness, blistering, or inflammation even if you're careful with sun cream. 2. ANTIBIOTICS Certain antibiotics can absorb UV light and increase your risk of sunburn and skin rashes, Thorrun says. This is especially the case for doxycycline and ciprofloxacin, two commonly used medicines to fight sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and urinary tract infections (UTIs), respectively. 'To minimise the risk of phototoxicity, it's important to avoid prolonged sun exposure while taking these medications,' she explains. How to keep your medicines safe in the heat By Dr Sameer Sanghvi You also need to be mindful of where you're storing your medications, especially in hot weather. Heat, air, light and moisture can all damage your medicine and stop them working as they should. Medications are likely to expire more quickly if not stored correctly too. A drawer or cabinet is an ideal place to store medicine. These tend to stay cool and dark, even in warm weather. That said, I'd avoid keeping your medicine in bathroom cabinets as these can become very damp thanks to steam from baths and showers. Unless advised otherwise, you should always keep medication in its original packaging. Things like the box and blister packet that tablets come in are designed to protect the medicine inside so it can do its job effectively. 3. ANTIDEPRESSANTS With more than 8 million people in the UK taking antidepressants, it's important to know that some can affect the skin. 'These medicines, especially sertraline, can cause your skin to become more reactive to sunlight through phototoxic or photoallergic mechanisms,' says Thorrun. This may lead to itching, redness, or rashes after even mild sun exposure. They're often the first treatment offered to help people struggling with 3 Skincare is vital in hot weather Credit: Alamy 4. STATINS Over 7 million Britons are prescribed statins to manage Statins work by lowering cholesterol levels, helping to protect against these serious heart problems. While increased sun sensitivity isn't a typical side effect, some people may still experience it. 'It's not very common but worth being aware of,' Thorrun advises. 'Always use sun protection regardless.' 5. HRT Oestrogen, on the whole, tends to be good for the skin, Thorrun says. 'It makes the skin thicker and stronger and therefore less likely to get burnt,' she explains. So the fact that the new study by researchers at Lund University suggests oestrogen, found in HRT, can increase the risk of burning and cancer is a bit counterintuitive, she says. However, this is not the first study to suggest a link. For example, a large Finnish study Similarly, a How to stay safe Last summer, a cancer charity begged Brits to do more to protect themselves from the sun as the number of melanoma skin-cancer cases in the UK reached an all-time high. Cancer Research UK predicted there will be a record 20,800 cases diagnosed in 2024, up from a yearly average of 19,300 between 2020 and 2022. Its analysis shows rates between 2009 and 2019 - from 21 to 28 cases per 100,000 people. Can you spot the cancerous moles from the harmless ones? IF you've spotted a new mole or lingering mark on your skin, don't be too quick to dismiss it. It's important to know what your skin looks like normally, to helps you notice any unusual changes. The ABCDE rule can be followed to assess the health of a mole. If your mole falls into the following, it's worth getting checked: A symmetrical – melanomas usually have two very different halves and are an irregular shape B order – melanomas usually have a notched or ragged border C olours – melanomas will usually be a mix of two or more colours D iameter – most melanomas are usually larger than 6mm in diameter E nlargement or e levation – a mole that changes size over time is more likely to be a melanoma Most melanomas don't give you symptoms like pain or itching. Meanwhile, some non-cancerous moles or abnormal patches of skin can be itchy. So having some of these changes on their own doesn't mean you definitely have melanoma, but you should still get it checked out. There are two main types of skin cancer - non melanoma skin cancer and melanoma skin cancer. Non-melanoma skin cancer includes: Basal cell skin cancer - this is also called basal cell carcinoma Squamous cell skin cancer - this is also called squamous cell carcinoma There are a few different types of melanoma too: Superficial spreading melanoma Nodular melanoma Lentigo maligna melanoma Find out more about distinguishing moles The rise in diagnoses is due partly to a growing aging population and an increase in awareness of the signs of skin cancer. Melanomas are a serious type of skin cancer, strongly linked to sun exposure. At first, they usually appear as If left unchecked, these moles can grow and transform, often becoming darker, and morph into something far more sinister. It can quickly spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs like the brain, making it even harder to treat and much more deadly. 'The best advice is to always wear sunscreen, especially when you're out in the sun – no matter the season. I recommend SPF 30 or higher,' Thorrun says. 'Use clothing and hats to cover your skin when you can.' 'And try to avoid the strongest sun between 11am and 3pm,' she adds. If you are worried always check patient information leaflets or speak to a pharmacist for guidance. 'Don't just stop taking prescribed medicines,' Thorrun says. 'Always speak to your healthcare professional if any concerns.'
Fox News
3 days ago
- Health
- Fox News
NSAIDs vs. acetaminophen: What you need to know before your next headache
Most households have a stash of painkillers tucked away for surprise headaches or stubborn cramps. But some may not realize that all painkillers are not created equal, and they don't all treat the same kind of pain. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers fall into two main categories, according to MedLine Plus. The first is NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen and naproxen. "These reduce both pain and inflammation, but can irritate the stomach if not taken with food," Dr. Jessica Oswald, MD, MPH, an anesthesiologist and pain management specialist at UC San Diego Health, told Fox News Digital. The other medication, acetaminophen, also helps with pain and fever, but does not reduce inflammation, Oswald noted. Dr. Min "Frank" Wu, a physician at AdventHealth in Littleton, Colorado, elaborated on how these drugs work differently in the body. NSAIDs are effective in treating fever and pain relief, the doctor told Fox News Digital. These medications can alleviate a variety of symptoms related to arthritis, infection, back injury, headaches and muscle strain, along with other acute and chronic conditions that cause pain and inflammation, he said. "NSAIDs work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) throughout the body," he noted, which means they inhibit the production of "biological mediators" that cause inflammation and blood clotting. Acetaminophen, on the other hand, works by "inhibiting COX enzymes and modulating the endocannabinoid system in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to exert its effects," Wu said. As a pain reliever, acetaminophen is effective for migraines, according to the doctor. "In combination, acetaminophen/caffeine is recommended as a first-line agent by many European agencies," he noted. Acetaminophen's effectiveness for arthritic pain, however, is small and not clinically important, according to Wu. "It has not been shown to be effective for low back pain or radicular (nerve pain) in general," he added. Wu pointed out that acetaminophen appears to boost the pain-relief properties of other medications. "The combination of acetaminophen and NSAIDs has been shown to be more effective than either medication alone," Wu said. Oswald also spoke about this method, which she calls a "multimodal" approach. "In many cases, combining different types of pain relievers can be more effective than using just one," she told Fox News Digital. For example, an NSAID like ibuprofen along with acetaminophen and a topical cream "can work together to relieve pain more effectively," Oswald said. Research has shown that NSAIDs have multiple adverse effects and should be used with caution, both doctors pointed out. "They have been shown to cause gastrointestinal issues, and in severe cases can cause ulcers and bleeding," Wu noted. These side effects appear to be dependent on the size of the dose, the doctor added. "In many cases, combining different types of pain relievers can be more effective than using just one." There is evidence of increased gastric effects, kidney impairment and heart disease at higher doses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also issued warnings about cardiovascular risk. At high enough doses, it can (less commonly) cause liver damage, which can potentially be fatal, according to Wu. Oswald recommended that people with certain health conditions — such as kidney problems, heart issues or stomach ulcers — should talk to a doctor before using NSAIDs. Acetaminophen has been linked to a potential risk of liver injury and allergic reactions, according to the FDA. Rare but serious skin reactions have also been reported. "Acetaminophen is generally safer for most people, as long as they stay under 3,000 milligrams per day," Oswald added. After weighing the benefits and risks, the doctor said that people should "absolutely" keep both types of OTC medications on hand at home. "Having a few different options allows you to manage pain more effectively by targeting it in different ways," she said. For more Health articles, visit Ultimately, if pain doesn't improve or keeps coming back, it's best to consult a healthcare professional who can assess the cause and discuss other treatment options, including prescription medications.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Resistant hypertension: Why is your blood pressure still high despite medication?
When your doctor wraps a cuff around your arm and announces a blood pressure reading, it may seem like just another routine check. But those numbers hold crucial insights into your heart health. And despite medications when they persistently remain high, t is called resistant hypertension. Resistant hypertension is not merely a more persistent form of high blood pressure; it indicates that the current treatment regimen may be insufficient. What we need is a shift in perspective: from merely increasing doses to truly understanding what's driving the resistance. That means identifying secondary causes, improving adherence, and yes, considering innovative interventions when appropriate. We can't afford to treat this passively—it demands a proactive, personalized approach. Here's what you need to know to take control of your health: Decoding the numbers: What blood pressure readings really say? A typical blood pressure reading is written as two numbers: systolic (top) over diastolic (bottom). Ideally, these numbers should be under 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is categorized into grades based on these readings: Grade 1 (Mild): 140–159/90–99 mmHg Grade 2 (Moderate): 160–179/100–109 mmHg Grade 3 (Severe): 180/110 mmHg or higher In some cases, blood pressure remains elevated despite the use of multiple medications. This is known as resistant hypertension—defined as blood pressure that stays above target (140/90 mmHg, or 130/80 mmHg for individuals with diabetes or chronic kidney disease) even when treated with at least three different antihypertensive drugs, including a diuretic at optimal doses. What's making your blood pressure so stubborn? At the core of resistant hypertension is often an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which keeps the body in a constant state of heightened alert—constricting blood vessels and driving up blood pressure. This heightened sympathetic drive plays a central role in making hypertension difficult to control. Beyond this, several secondary causes can also contribute, including chronic kidney disease, hormonal imbalances (like primary aldosteronism or thyroid dysfunction), and conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea. Certain medications—such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and some antidepressants—may interfere with blood pressure regulation. Lifestyle factors like high salt intake, alcohol consumption, obesity, and chronic stress can further compound the problem. More than just pills: Hypertension in majority of the patients is often considered less important due its asymptomatic and silent nature. Managing resistant hypertension isn't just about bringing numbers down in the moment—it's about protecting your future. While adjusting medications, improving lifestyle habits, and addressing root causes remain critical, we also need to look beyond symptom control. Innovative and new age Interventional therapies like renal denervation (RDN) offer a promising path—not just as a last resort, but as a proactive step. By targeting the overactive nerves that drive high blood pressure, RDN has the potential to reduce long-term cardiovascular risks, including stroke, heart failure, and kidney damage. It's time we stop thinking only in terms of short-term fixes and start considering how early intervention can lead to better outcomes tomorrow. Managing for the long term: Monitor, Adjust, Repeat: Resistant hypertension demands ongoing attention and a flexible, long-term strategy. Regular monitoring—both at home and in the clinic—helps to stay in the ideal target range of blood pressure of under 140/90 mmHg. Staying engaged in your care is just as important: adhering with regular follow-ups, talking about your symptoms, be educated on the impact of poorly controlled BP, and making steady lifestyle changes, or opting for an innovative interventional therapy all play a role. With the right plan in place, long-term control isn't just possible—it's within reach. If your blood pressure isn't responding to treatment, it's time to ask why and to take control. Resistant hypertension doesn't mean there's no solution—it means the solution needs to be smarter. With a combination of early detection, individualized care, and advanced therapies like RDN, better control is within reach. Issued in Public Interest. All information contained herein is for general awareness purposes only and not intended to act as medical advice. Patients should consult with their physicians in relation to their condition. Dr Rahul Gupta, Senior consultant and HOD in department of cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
