Line up 4 women. ~1 out of the 4 has genital herpes.
Line up 5 men. ~1 out of the 5 has genital herpes.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most common STDs in the United States. Although most commonly caused by HSV-2, genital herpes may be caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2. HSV-1 is usually seen on the mouth and lips usually called fever-blisters. HSV-2 is usually found in the genital area. It is possible to find HSV-1 in the genital area and HSV-2 in the oral area.
The signs and symptoms of HSV-2 is usually painful sores or blisters in the genital area. Sometimes the lymph nodes (glands) near the genital area are swollen. In some cases people may have body aches and chills. Many people who are infected do not experience these symptoms or only experience them on the initial outbreak. Outbreaks may be prevalent or non-existent in a person. Those with suppressed immune systems (HIV, cancer) will have more frequent and severe outbreaks.
To accurately diagnose HSV-2, a culture needs to be taken of active lesions that are not dried and crusted over. Blood tests are not reliable since HSV is a virus. This means that you must be experiencing an outbreak to get a diagnosis and the lesions should be wet. The test consists of sticking a swap/cutip-like apparatus into the active lesion(s) to capture the tissue affected. This swab is sent to a lab for testing.
There is no cure for herpes. It can be spread between break-outs but is more likely to be spread with active lesions and just before lesions appear with viral shedding. This is during a period often referred to as the prodromal period. During this time, symptoms are not present.
The only way to prevent getting herpes is through abstinence. Condoms may lessen the chance of spreading this disease but it is not guaranteed. Keep in mind that a condom may not cover the entire affected area because herpes lesions may be in other areas than the penis. Be careful with oral sex also since both types of herpes can be transmitted into the genital and oral areas. It is believed that women contract it more frequently and easily than men. Having herpes also increase your chances of contracting HIV!
There are medicines available to suppress the frequency of herpes outbreaks and to lessen the severity and length of an outbreak. Again, there is no cure. Some people, mostly those with suppressed immune systems, take this medicine daily or at regular intervals such as 3 times per week.
Visit your PCP or an NP for more questions or for care if you have this condition.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Homosexuality: Genetics, Environmental, or Both
During the 2000 census, officials attempted to get an accurate count of the number of homosexuals living in the US. Because of the unexpected small number reported, they believe they were unsuccessful. The official count was 1% of the population which has been heavily criticized and is not believed to be true.
In an attempt to answer this question within the medical community, the following are the only possible answers to the question:
1. Because of the desire to experiment, people fall into homosexual behavior.
2. Homosexuality is a mental illness. Just as a pedophile is a mentally disturbed individual, homosexuality is sometimes viewed as a mental illness.
3. Homosexuals are born this way. It is biological and there is no choice involved.
So which answer is correct? No medical research has shown a link between genetics and homosexuality. A homosexual and heterosexual persons' genetic make-up are not different. Because I believe in evidence based medicine and because of other personal reasons, my thoughts are that homosexuality is strictly a learned behavior.
So I am sure each one of you are thinking about the homosexuals you encounter and if you believe he/she was born this way or if it was learned. I am sure you will begin to think back to the very earliest memory that you have of that person. For me, this memory is of my cousin Jack who as a 6 year old, he loved dolls and shunned the thought of playing with trucks, cars, and typical boy things. These memeories would make me believe that genetics plays a huge role and that he was born this way. How could a 6 year old learn such a thing? Then I start to think about the possible things that could have happened to him to cause this sort of behavior. Was it a traumatic event? Was it something he witnessed? I even start to question this whole thought of evidence based medicine! Many homosexuals experienced traumatic homosexual events as children or their first sexual encounter proved to be homosexual (1970 Kinser Institute).
So, what do I tell patients who talk to me about homosexual desires:
1. Avoid other homosexuals- Just like anything else...if you don't like it or want it, stay away. Since there is no medical evidence that suggests it is genetic and can not be changed, you can 'unlearn' this behavior if desired. 'If desired' being the keys part of that sentence. According to Kinser Institute study in 1970, many homosexuals experienced traumatic homosexual events as children or their first sexual encounter proved to be homosexual. That behavior can be unlearned.
2. If there is a history of trauma as a child, deal with it- These memories may plague you. You must deal with them. If psychological treatment or counseling is necessary, I refer. Ask your NP to do the same if necessary.
3. Organizations- There are organizations out there to help with those attempting to get away from homosexuality.
4. Religion- Not all believe in a higher being, but I believe in God. According to medical literature, relegious committments seems to be most helpful in changing a homosexual lifestyle.
For those patients who are homosexual and love their life as it is, I encourage safe sex with one partner and making smart choices.
Healthy Eating During the Holidays
Everyone knows that healthy eating during the holidays is tough. At work there's the grandmother or mother of the department who is looking for a reason to cook sweets and does a pretty good job at it. At home you or a family member want to try different recipes to prepare for Christmas or Thanksgiving. Then there's the leftovers! Even at the local grocer- there are enough food samples to get your tummy filled! Parties, parties, parties! Add in the cocktails and you are sure to gain 5-10 lbs within a month. So how do we avoid the 'holiday bulge'?
1. Continue the exercise. I know it's cold outside and jogging can be more difficult but joining a gym may prove to be truly beneficial if you can't tolerate the cold air. If you simply don't have the time to exercise, walk more frequently by parking further away from the store, taking the stairs, walking in the malls while shopping, etc. There are many ways to get the needed exercise and just 30 minutes a day can help keep away the unwanted pounds!
2. Limit the sweets and 'empty' calorie foods- Parties and granny's holiday goodies will surely help you pack on the pounds. Limit them. Just say no! You have to plan ahead! Impulsive eating will destroy a well planned day!
3. Limit the dips- Dips are usually packed with unwanted fat and calories. Eat it dry instead.
4. Have healthy snacks nearby- Almonds, nuts, fruit are all good choices that will help you avoid impulsive eating. The fattening foods won;t appear quite as appealing.
5. Arrive late to parties. Most likely the 'bad' foods will be gone!
6. Bring a healthy dish or host the party yourself- Being healthier is in style. With the rise in obesity rates in the US and the highlights on heart disease, strokes, etc, your family and friends will appreciate you keeping their well-being in mind.
7. Eat before you go to a party- You will be satisfied and less tempted to eat and inhale foods before you even think about the calories and fat content.
7. If you mess up, start fresh tomorrow and turn the week around- It is never too late to start over and try it again.
1. Continue the exercise. I know it's cold outside and jogging can be more difficult but joining a gym may prove to be truly beneficial if you can't tolerate the cold air. If you simply don't have the time to exercise, walk more frequently by parking further away from the store, taking the stairs, walking in the malls while shopping, etc. There are many ways to get the needed exercise and just 30 minutes a day can help keep away the unwanted pounds!
2. Limit the sweets and 'empty' calorie foods- Parties and granny's holiday goodies will surely help you pack on the pounds. Limit them. Just say no! You have to plan ahead! Impulsive eating will destroy a well planned day!
3. Limit the dips- Dips are usually packed with unwanted fat and calories. Eat it dry instead.
4. Have healthy snacks nearby- Almonds, nuts, fruit are all good choices that will help you avoid impulsive eating. The fattening foods won;t appear quite as appealing.
5. Arrive late to parties. Most likely the 'bad' foods will be gone!
6. Bring a healthy dish or host the party yourself- Being healthier is in style. With the rise in obesity rates in the US and the highlights on heart disease, strokes, etc, your family and friends will appreciate you keeping their well-being in mind.
7. Eat before you go to a party- You will be satisfied and less tempted to eat and inhale foods before you even think about the calories and fat content.
7. If you mess up, start fresh tomorrow and turn the week around- It is never too late to start over and try it again.
MRSA and Staph Infections
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) infection is defined as a resistant strain of staph. It initially came on the scenes years ago in hospitals after those antibiotics known as 'broad spectrum antibiotics' could not cure the infection. Although staph can be found on most surfaces, on the skin, in the nasal canal, the more lethal strain of MRSA can be fatal.
This infection does occur more often in those patients who are already hospitalized, living in community designed facilities such as nursing homes, jails, and prisons, and those with weakened immune systems or the elderly population. However, it can occur in healthy, non-hospitalized individuals. Not only is it resistant to methicillin, but it is also resistant to penicillin, oxacillin, and amoxicillin- drugs used frequently to treat the staph form of this infection.
Because staph is almost everywhere, it is usually harmless. The trouble usually begins when staph enters an open cut or wound or a spider bite! The symptoms usually include, localized inflammation or swelling to the area, warmth around the area, sometimes pus filled lesions, sometimes fever and chills. The pus-filled lesions are often called 'boils' or 'abscesses'. Sometimes these lesions have to be surgically drained.
If you recognize these symptoms, you should see your primary healthcare provider (PCP) or nurse practitioner (NP) for advice. Before treating a lesion as MRSA, a culture and sensitivity may be needed which helps to identify if it is indeed MRSA or staph and also to recognize what antibiotic(s) are indicated. Any lesions on your body should be monitored closely and kept clean to prevent the development of MRSA. Old fashion hand washing is still one of the easiest ways to prevent this infection from developing.
This infection does occur more often in those patients who are already hospitalized, living in community designed facilities such as nursing homes, jails, and prisons, and those with weakened immune systems or the elderly population. However, it can occur in healthy, non-hospitalized individuals. Not only is it resistant to methicillin, but it is also resistant to penicillin, oxacillin, and amoxicillin- drugs used frequently to treat the staph form of this infection.
Because staph is almost everywhere, it is usually harmless. The trouble usually begins when staph enters an open cut or wound or a spider bite! The symptoms usually include, localized inflammation or swelling to the area, warmth around the area, sometimes pus filled lesions, sometimes fever and chills. The pus-filled lesions are often called 'boils' or 'abscesses'. Sometimes these lesions have to be surgically drained.
If you recognize these symptoms, you should see your primary healthcare provider (PCP) or nurse practitioner (NP) for advice. Before treating a lesion as MRSA, a culture and sensitivity may be needed which helps to identify if it is indeed MRSA or staph and also to recognize what antibiotic(s) are indicated. Any lesions on your body should be monitored closely and kept clean to prevent the development of MRSA. Old fashion hand washing is still one of the easiest ways to prevent this infection from developing.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
The Flu vs Common Cold
Flu season is here!! So, what is the difference between the flu and a cold? The main difference is the presence of fever, chills, and body aches.
The Common Cold- a viral infection that can not be cured by antibiotics. It affects the upper respiratory system and is characterized by symptoms of sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. It can be caused by a number of viruses and it is thought that the body could never build up enough resistance to all of the viruses.
The Flu- also a virus called the influenza virus, is a more complicated virus which has different types and can lead to more complicated health problems such as pneumonia and meningitis. It affects the respiratory systems also and can be treated with antiviral medications (if started quickly) which can lessen the amount of time and symptoms of the sickness.
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for the common cold but there is a vaccine for the flu. Those most likely affected by the flu include the very young and the very old. This is why this group of people are recommeneded to get the flu vaccine.
http://www.blogger.com/
www.cdc.gov
The Common Cold- a viral infection that can not be cured by antibiotics. It affects the upper respiratory system and is characterized by symptoms of sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. It can be caused by a number of viruses and it is thought that the body could never build up enough resistance to all of the viruses.
The Flu- also a virus called the influenza virus, is a more complicated virus which has different types and can lead to more complicated health problems such as pneumonia and meningitis. It affects the respiratory systems also and can be treated with antiviral medications (if started quickly) which can lessen the amount of time and symptoms of the sickness.
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for the common cold but there is a vaccine for the flu. Those most likely affected by the flu include the very young and the very old. This is why this group of people are recommeneded to get the flu vaccine.
http://www.blogger.com/
www.cdc.gov
Holiday Blues
This time of the year can prove to be the most depressing times for the strongest, happiest people. Depression is real and often ignored. Most importantly, there are many ways to help with depression and the "Holiday Blues".
The"Holiday Blues ", originated of course from "The Blues", a known form of music. "The Blues" means down spirits, depression, and sadness. These feelings of depression are often felt mostly during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, but can be experienced during any holiday. The good news: it is usually self-limiting and goes away when the holidays are over, after regular routines are resumed and all of the celebration is over. The bad news: it could be dangerous and sometimes deadly.
The symptoms of "The Holiday Blues" are very similar to regular old depression in which the person experiences changes in sleeping (more sleep is more comon) and eating patterns (weight gain is common), loss of interest in the normal activites, lack of concentration, and others. Some people have more anxiety, nausea, and headaches.
The treatment for "The Holiday Blues"...believe it or not, you can do a lot yourself to help with the symptoms of holiday blues just as you can with regular depression. Since true Holiday Blues and not depression, is short-lived, those affected can help themselves out by staying on a normal eating and sleeping pattern and not overindulging in the wrong foods. Bad eating habits often lead to unwanted weight gain, unpleasant GI symptoms, and other short- and long-term health problems including depression. Over-spending and not having money to purchase Christmas gifts or other holiday wants, often leads to the Holiday Blues also. Planning ahead and setting a budget helps. Don't forget the true reason for the season! Spending time with the ones you love and who love you is always positive. Volunteering and helping those who are less fortunate than yourself can easily take your mind off your own problems, perhaps putting things in perspective. If the symptoms are still not improved after doing your part, see your primary healthcare provider. If you do not have one, find a reputable Nurse Practitioner near you. Because the best PCPs are often booked, do not ignore serious symptoms such as suicidal or homicidal ideations. Those are treated as high-priority and urgent needs and any PCP will be happy to expedite your appointment or get a referral to a mental health clinician. Happy Holidays!
The"Holiday Blues ", originated of course from "The Blues", a known form of music. "The Blues" means down spirits, depression, and sadness. These feelings of depression are often felt mostly during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, but can be experienced during any holiday. The good news: it is usually self-limiting and goes away when the holidays are over, after regular routines are resumed and all of the celebration is over. The bad news: it could be dangerous and sometimes deadly.
The symptoms of "The Holiday Blues" are very similar to regular old depression in which the person experiences changes in sleeping (more sleep is more comon) and eating patterns (weight gain is common), loss of interest in the normal activites, lack of concentration, and others. Some people have more anxiety, nausea, and headaches.
The treatment for "The Holiday Blues"...believe it or not, you can do a lot yourself to help with the symptoms of holiday blues just as you can with regular depression. Since true Holiday Blues and not depression, is short-lived, those affected can help themselves out by staying on a normal eating and sleeping pattern and not overindulging in the wrong foods. Bad eating habits often lead to unwanted weight gain, unpleasant GI symptoms, and other short- and long-term health problems including depression. Over-spending and not having money to purchase Christmas gifts or other holiday wants, often leads to the Holiday Blues also. Planning ahead and setting a budget helps. Don't forget the true reason for the season! Spending time with the ones you love and who love you is always positive. Volunteering and helping those who are less fortunate than yourself can easily take your mind off your own problems, perhaps putting things in perspective. If the symptoms are still not improved after doing your part, see your primary healthcare provider. If you do not have one, find a reputable Nurse Practitioner near you. Because the best PCPs are often booked, do not ignore serious symptoms such as suicidal or homicidal ideations. Those are treated as high-priority and urgent needs and any PCP will be happy to expedite your appointment or get a referral to a mental health clinician. Happy Holidays!
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