Is it usual to suffer from swollen limbs during an arthritis attack?
Question by RA: Is it usual to suffer from swollen limbs during an arthritis attack?
About a week back, my left feet became swollen and turned red. the pain was so excruciating, I couldn’t set my foot on the floor. First it was diagnosed as gout but my uric acid level is well within the normal range. So the doctors decided it was arthritis and suggested treatment for it. Now my feet don’t hurt that much but it still gets swollen when I walk around. It that normal for arthritis? Could it be an injury from stressed ligaments?
Best answer:
Answer by William M
welcome to the club, try a pair of elasticised ,socks,or stockings,a lot of us wear the surgical type, it helps big time,stops the swelling,pain,etc. i doubt it is strained ligaments ,the next thing in line for you is pain in the knee`s then hips,you will find of a night it takes quite awhile to settle,i have found that once the body warms up ,its not to bad, as you progress you will find that a warm swimming pool will bring great relief,being a low impact exercise , and looking after your body all goes towards a better life ,here in australia ,they sell magnetised blankets ,people swear by them, another one is emu oil, i haven`t fronted up with any of it,yet
What do you think? Answer below!
New Thermobalancing Therapy with Dr Allens Devices Gets Thumbs Ups from MDs Says Fine Treatment
London, UK (PRWEB) July 16, 2012
No painkillers, medications and surgeries are involved, while treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and sciatica / chronic lower back pain with Thermobalancing therapy, Fine Treatment reveals. So undesirable side effects arising from conventional treatment options can now be avoided. The only thing patients need are unique Dr. Allens devices that go on top of the painful area while treating back pain or must be applied to the coccyx area for the prostate problems. Thats it!
Lower back pain treatment and relief without surgery can be a reality with the Thermobalancing therapy. Forget the surgery that will leave your bank account empty, or the painkillers that you will have to absorb for the rest of your life, says Dr. Ralph Saint-Phard, MD, Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center, USA.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), chronic lower back pain is most likely caused by degenerative conditions such as arthritis or disc disease. Lower back pain is one of the most common medical problems, affecting 8 out of 10 people at some point during their lives. So Dr Allen’s devices and the Thermobalancing therapy they enable can benefit a large share of the US population.
Regarding the application of the Thermobalancing therapy to the treatment of BPH, you can watch a short video on how Dr. Allens device has helped a user with prostate enlargement: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5xidswhxJM.
On the other hand, according to the Bladder and Bowel Foundation, although effective in relieving symptoms of an enlarged prostate, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) can cause complications, leading to retrograde ejaculation. There are several types of drugs that act differently in reducing BPH symptoms which, according to the American Urological Association, have known side effects which vary from drug to drug. A user can start having stomach or intestinal problems, sinus congestion, headache, or dizziness.
The natural Thermobalancing therapy relieves pain in the lower back and sciatica, is beneficial for an enlarged prostate, and most importantly has no side effects, says Dr. Allen. Dr. Allens devices are the first successful natural solution for benign prostatic hyperplasia and lower back pain and sciatica, at the affordable price.
Read more at http://www.finetreatment.co.uk/sciaticatreatment/lowerbackpaintreatment.html
About Dr. Simon Allen and Fine Treatment:
Dr. Simon Allen is a highly experienced medical professional. His specialty is in the internal medicine and cardio-vascular field. He has treated a wide range of chronic diseases, including patients after a heart attack, with kidneys problems, including kidney stones disease, prostate and spine conditions, as well as metabolic disorders. Fine Treatment exclusively offers Dr Allens devices for the treatment of chronic prostatitis and BPH, coronary heart disease and to dissolve kidney stones, as well as sciatica treatment and lower back pain relief.
Quest for Novel Regenerative Medicine and Changes in Government Regulations Brighten Stem Cell Research Prospects, according to an Exclusive Report from RI Technologies.
Hyderabad, AP (PRWEB) July 16, 2012
Stem Cell Research has picked up pace like never before now. The science of stem cells is leading to evolution of cell-based therapies referred to as reparative or regenerative medicine for the treatment of diseases. The ongoing research on stem cells indicates the replenishment of damaged cells by healthy cells in adult organism and the origin of an organism through a single cell. Stem cell science is predicted to be the most promising field in Biology though it has its own share of queries and controversies.
Stem Cell Research is progressive yet mired in controversies. The technology is leading to a new kind of cell-based medicine that is regenerative in nature. However, practicality and ethics dominate the ever controversial subject. Hence, it may take some more time, before a proper worldwide consensus emerges on the usage and procedures of stem cell research. While some countries approve, some oppose. Stem cell research is most likely to gather pace in countries with less regulatory controls. Of all the countries, China has the most favorable environment for research. The UK too has a strong research presence. The United States is the leader in stem cell research. However, the government controls the grants for research but places no restrictions on funds from private, state, or local government resources.
Stem cells give advanced information about how an organism develops from a single cell and how healthy cells replace damaged cells in adult organisms. This is a very promising area of science and has huge disease-curing applications. Stem cells are as much part of controversy as they are exciting. They possess the potential for curing diseases including Alzheimers, Diabetes, Huntingtons and Parkinsons. Stem cell research itself is controversial as the stem cells are derived from embryos. Growth of stem cells market worldwide is basically driven by the potential of stem cells for the various diseases. For example, embryonic stem cells are capable of generating new tissues and organs to replace the damaged tissues and organs.
Adult stem cells market is the largest tapped market while cord blood and embryonic stem cell markets, though with huge market potential, are still in infancy stages. The US is the leader followed by the European and Asia-Pacific regions. With government regulations being amended in several countries, Stem Cell Research is expected to pick up pace rapidly in the next few years.
Stem Cell technology is being increasing applied for the past decade to treat critical diseases and presently utilized for treatment of more than 70 diseases. Utility of stem cells in cosmetic and post injury healing therapy was also established recently. Umbilical cord is an abundant source of stem cells and the best advantage of this source is that it is a non-invasive procedure as cord blood and cord tissue are utilized to derive stem cells.
Stem cells are found in adult bone marrow and also in embryos. Adult stem cells have been used in disease treatment since long time. However, embryonic stem cell research is the topic of debate. The field can lead to great therapeutic treatments. But, due to its various ethical origins, is mired in debates all over the world. Embryonic stem cells have the potential to transform into any other type of cell (unlike adult stem cells). The huge potential for embryonic stem cells lies in finding treatments for liver disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, spinal cord injuries, cardiac diseases, cancers, diabetes, cosmetics, bone and cartilage diseases, ostroarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and a host of other life threatening diseases. The discovery of a second source of adult stem cells has given hope and great potential for the future of stem cell therapy.
Embryonic stem cell research evokes great excitement primarily due to the fact that embryonic stem cells can make so called regenerative medicine and be used in therapeutic cloning. Embryonic stem cell research has the potential to contribute to the management and treatment of a large number of diseases such as diabetes, spinal cord injuries, cardiac disease, Parkinsons and Alzheimers disease. Scientists can learn about human cell growth and development, and also to understand cancer better. However, controversial debates (ethical issues) in this area have led scientists to study more about adult stem cell research. However, embryonic stem cells still capture scientists fancy due to their enhanced proficiency at cell division and plasticity. Apart from the US (after initial bans), the UK, Belgium, Sweden, Japan, China and South Korea have allowed embryonic stem cell cloning. The EU also provides funds for countries undertaking embryonic stem cell research. President Obamas change in policy for embryonic stem cell research will open new doors for scientists. A lifting of restrictions also means that detailed guidelines have to be outlined and proper laws should be in place for the several issues in stem cell research.
Countries are competing globally for getting an edge in stem cell research as breakthrough technologies in this field would herald the countrys medical expertise and dominance. Research and laboratory technologies are also progressing rapidly. The potential of stem cell research both medically and economically, is leading to huge investments by biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical companies and governments too.
For more information about this report, please visit: http://www.researchimpact.com/MIR005_STEMCELLRESEARCH.aspx
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About RI Technologies
RI Technologies, http://www.researchimpact.com, is a premier source of market research on the Biotechnology & Healthcare sector with exclusive focus on product segments, global and regional market analysis, technology trends, industry outlook, competitor profiles, corporate directory and patents information. The company believes in pure research that will trigger action for immediate customer needs rather than plain reporting of data. The dedicated team works 24/7 to deliver unique reports that are of immense value to investment banks, companies, management consultants, trade associations, corporate executives, business analysts, libraries, universities, and business schools. The company’s reports provide strategic information tools to the manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and suppliers that will help them to probe into and support critical business decisions. RI Technologies believes in broadening the value of market research obtained through several dedicated streams of information. The strategic market information tables, graphically represented, will aid companies’ research needs and help in forecasting, and gearing up to the future. Emphasis is on factual insights and forecasts with maximum global coverage. The company strives to provide market insight reports that empower customers with enlightening critical business information.
Employees with Arthritis May Benefit From Walking While Working With a TrekDesk Treadmill Desk Regardless of Weight
Scottsdale, AZ (PRWEB) September 28, 2011
Duke scientists released a surprising finding in this months journal, Arthritis & Rheumatism, showing that exercise without significant weight loss or proper diet can still be beneficial to joints. Aware of the link between obesity and arthritis the study set out to find if exercise offered a benefit independent of diet and weight to arthritic knee sufferers. While not a prescription to ignore obesity, diet or inactivity, the scientists found that exercise could provide a significant protective benefit for arthritis sufferers. The challenge is finding a way to change sedentary unhealthy behaviors and encourage exercise. TrekDesk Treadmill Desks offer a potential solution.
The Duke study focused on two groups of male mice. Group One was fed a high fat diet, Group Two a normal diet. As expected the high fat group gained weight, processed glucose less efficiently and developed higher inflammatory molecules in the blood associated with osteoarthritis. However, when engaged in regular exercise regimens much of the inflammatory response was mitigated despite the extra weight and poor diet. Researchers dispelled the myth that extra weight exacerbates the development of arthritis independent of inactivity.
Lead researcher, Dr. Timothy Griffin was surprised to find that the fat cells among the obese mice actually acted differently when exposed to regular intervals of exercise. While still producing inflammatory molecules associated with osteoarthritis the fat cells lost their dynamic ability to inflict tissue damage due to the benefits of exercise.
Too many Americans have simply given up on health believing that if they are not a perfect weight or body type that exercise is a frustrating waste of time. This study out of Duke reinforces that exercise has a number of benefits not totally understood regardless of an individuals weight or diet. We have to promote movement as the first step in our battle to restore health in America, stated Steve Bordley, CEO of TrekDesk Treadmill Desks.
2/3 of American adults are overweight or obese at an annual cost of $ 150 billion (source: NIH) and 20% of American adults suffer from arthritis at a treatment cost (along with other rheumatic symptoms) estimated at $ 128 billion annually (source: Arthritis Foundation).
Walking has been proven to be an effective preventative measure against both conditions. Citing lack of time and motivation in an NIH study less than 5% of American adults exercise enough to maintain health minimums. TrekDesk Treadmill Desks hopes to change this dynamic.
Designed to fit any existing treadmill, TrekDesk is an affordable, full sized workstation that allows individuals the opportunity to gain the necessary amount of exercise daily to maintain health, prevent disease, strengthen muscles, boost mood and productivity, without requiring additional time during the day or extra motivation.
TrekDesk is currently available for sale online at TrekDesk.com for $ 479.00 including free shipping.
Join the TrekDesk Movement Revolution to learn more on TrekDesks Facebook page.
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Worlds First Breakthrough Stem Cell Procedure on a Goat Performed in Kentucky Vet Clinic: Advanced Technology From MediVet-America Provides Animal Therapeutic Care
Nicholasville, KY (PRWEB) September 29, 2011
When Cinnamon, a seven-year-old, 325 pound goat, began receiving stem cell therapy on location at a veterinary clinic outside of Louisville, Kentucky, it was a medical first in the whole world for the animal kingdom.
The procedure at the Henry County Animal Clinic was performed by Dr. Clark Slone, DVM, to alleviate the pain Cinnamon suffered from a torn ACL and bad carpal joints.
Dr. Slone utilized the advanced, drug-free technology pioneered by MediVet-America (http://www.Medivet-America.com), a research and development company and global leader in veterinary stem cell technology and regenerative medicines.
Adult animal stem cell technology uses the bodys own regenerative healing power to help cure dogs, cats, horses and other animals suffering from arthritis, hip dysplasia and tendon, ligament and cartilage injuries and other ailments.
Fat tissue was removed from the animal, millions of stem cells were separated and activated on location through a patented L.E.D. technology, and then injected into the affected areas.
Within a month of the procedure, Cinnamon will be moving well, virtually pain free.
These stem cells are supercharged, theyre ready to work, and automatically go to the inflamed area in the body, said MediVet-Americas Brenda Timperman. The animals that were having problems recover and are a whole lot better.
Using MediVet-Americas new Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Procedure Kit, veterinary practitioners in 200 markets throughout 42 states now perform the drug-free procedure entirely in their own clinics more quickly, effectively and economically than first generation animal stem cell therapy. This new treatment, developed in Australia, is now available in 23 countries worldwide.
The stem cell advancements in veterinary medicine are paving the way for healthier and happier lives for pets in America.
Some areas of research and therapy are progressing faster than that in human medicine, said MediVet-America managing director Jeremy Delk. Stem cell therapy is at the leading edge of this evolution.
Stem cells are basic biological cells which have the ability to differentiate into specialized tissue cells and regenerate to additional cells. These new cells can be beneficial in replacing or repairing damaged tissue. The stem cells used in veterinary medicine arent embryonic, the type which have garnered much controversy over the years, but are taken from adipose (fat) tissue of the individual patient.
MediVet, the worlds leading animal stem cell company, is offering the newest and most advanced stem cell techniques that are changing the landscape of veterinary medicine. The regenerative cells are injected into the pets joints to encourage connective tissue like cartilage, tendons and ligaments to heal or grow including other degenerative diseases.
Delk said that trials, thousands of procedures and studies have shown significant improvement in quality of life for dogs, cats, and horses even Cinnamon the goat, camels and other wild animals with arthritis and other joint diseases.
More than 3,000 stem cell kits have been supplied to veterinarians across the U.S., who are seeing tremendous results. Animals that had been unable to climb stairs or walk well, are running and playing.
We have experienced tremendous growth this year in all areas of our business, said Delk. Were overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response weve received from pet owners and veterinarians around the world, and were deeply honored by the pet industrys acknowledgement of our services.
Excitement in the technology continues to grow as we are now seeing stem cell procedures happening everyday across the United States and the world.
Americans spent $ 48.3 billion in 2010 on their companion animals, according to the American Pet Products Association, up from $ 28.5 billion in 2001. The cost of a stem cell treatment is about $ 1,900 for small animals, $ 2,400 for horses. Stem cells also can be frozen and banked.
MediVet is seeking distributors in America and other parts of the world to serve its growing number of veterinarians and clinics.
We feel that it is an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs who are interested in entering the expanding bio-medical field in a unique way, said Delk.
Delk said veterinarians can become in-house stem cell therapy clinics allowing them to perform procedures in real time for the small cost of necessary equipment of just $ 7,000.
IN THE NEWS: http://www.whas11.com/news/Stem-cell-therapy-breakthrough-benefits-goat-could-benefit-other-animals-130368428.html.
ABOUT MEDIVET-AMERICA
A research and development company and global leader in veterinary stem cell technology, MediVet-America provides innovative cell applications for the therapeutic care of animals. Headquartered in Nicholasville, Kentucky, MediVet-America develops advanced cellular designed kits and services for the treatment of osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease. The company also offers MediVet Lab Services in multiple locations around the world that provides technical support for in-house stem cell vets, as well as regional and national Adipose stem cell processing and cyro banking services for pets at a young age or for a maintenance program, autologous conditioned serum processing, and cell counting for in-house stem cell procedures. Information on animal stem cell treatment and banking services are available at http://www.MediVet-America.com.
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Find More Osteoarthritis Arthritis Press Releases
I have a 10 year old dog (a Bichon) that suffers from arthritis. What is the best treatment or medication?
Question by petopia4me@sbcglobal.net: I have a 10 year old dog (a Bichon) that suffers from arthritis. What is the best treatment or medication?
Best answer:
Answer by Dave F
ask the vet
What do you think? Answer below!
Veteran’s Day Honor: Search & Rescue Dogs of 9-11 Receive Breakthrough Stem Cell Regenerative Therapy from MediVet-America
Nashville, TN (PRWEB) November 10, 2011
One of the last surviving search & rescue dogs deployed in the 9/11 attacks, now 15 years old, will receive a breakthrough stem cell regenerative treatment from MediVet-America to help ease crippling arthritis and live out her days in greater comfort. At least two other 9/11 dogs also will receive the same stem cell therapy.
Only about a dozen of the nearly 100 search & rescue dogs that were sent to the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, PA, are still alive today.
Bailey, a black Labrador retriever who is retired from service, will undergo the drug-free procedure on Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11, 2011, 10 a.m., at Companion Animal Hospital, in Goodlettsville, TN, near Nashville. It will be performed by Dr. Mary Ergen, D.V.M., and Katherine Wilkie, director of lab services for MediVet-America, which is donating the procedure.
Along with her handler, Keith Lindley of Thompson Station, TN, Bailey was mobilized by FEMA to the Pentagon on September 12, 2001. For 11 days she searched the disaster site and acted as a therapy dog for the first responders and military personnel who were devastated by the experience and missing their own families and pets. Later, Bailey went to Salt Lake City, UT, for the 2002 Winter Olympics and did wilderness searches back home. Today, she is stiff-legged from severe arthritis.
It seems fitting that on Veterans Day, when we honor all who have served our country, we are helping one of the unsung heroes of 9-11, said Lindley. I saw firsthand how Bailey and the other search & rescue dogs made a big difference in a terrible tragedy. And she may have many good years ahead. Her mother is now 18 years old.
Also to receive stem cell treatment in the coming weeks is Red, a 12 year old black Lab who was sent to the Pentagon on September 16 with her handler, Heather Roche of Annapolis, MD. Red also worked for 11 days, finding the remains of victims in the north parking-lot area. She later responded to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. No longer able to handle tasks like climbing a two-story ladder, Red retired in July. Ms. Roche said, Red wants to work, but her body just cant do it anymore.
A third 9/11 search & rescue dog that searched the ruins at Ground Zero, Hoke, owned by Julie Noyes of Indiana, also will be treated.
Veterinarians and researchers describe stem cell regenerative therapy as a major scientific development in the treatment of arthritis, hip dysplasia, ligament and cartilage injuries and other degenerative joint diseases in dogs, cats, horses and other animals. The technology uses an adult animals own stem cells to heal itself.
MediVet-Americas treatment involves removing fat tissue from the animal, separating the stem cells from the fat, activating and then injecting the cells into the affected areas. Within four to six weeks, animals that had been in severe pain with a restricted range of motion are able to walk, run and even jump again.
The key to the procedure is an advanced, patented L.E.D. technology that activates millions of dormant stem cells present in fat tissue.
We are proud to help the unsung canine heroes of 9-11 on this first Veterans Day following the 10th anniversary of the attacks, said MediVet-America managing director Jeremy Delk. They deserve the very best stem cell therapeutic care that is now being received by animals across the nation.
ABOUT MEDIVET-AMERICA
The worlds leading research and development company in veterinary stem cell technology, MediVet-America provides innovative cell applications for the therapeutic care of animals. Headquartered in Nicholasville, Kentucky, MediVet-America develops advanced cellular designed kits and services for the treatment of osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease. The company also offers MediVet Lab Services in multiple locations around the world that provides technical support for in-house stem cell vets, as well as regional and national Adipose stem cell processing and cyro banking services for pets at a young age or for a maintenance program, autologous conditioned serum processing, and cell counting for in-house stem cell procedures. [http://www.MediVet-America.com
EDITORS NOTE: The media is invited to cover the procedure at the Companion Animal Hospital, 121 Two Mile Pike, Goodlettsville, TN 32072. To arrange interviews, photographs and videotaping, contact Roberts Communications.
Photo of Bailey: http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2011/08/14/magazine/14Mag-rescue-dogs.html#5
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Find More Osteoarthritis Arthritis Press Releases
Q&A: Can you receive bone fractures from Osteo Arthritis?
Question by Angie B: Can you receive bone fractures from Osteo Arthritis?
I have osteoarthritis and has undergone bi-lateral total hip replacements. I was at a follow-up appointment with my doctor and was complaining about pain in my right ankle and swelling of it. I was experiencing this trouble way before the surgeries and my doctor had it x-rayed and it shows old and new fractures.
Best answer:
Answer by sunshine_mel
the condition will gnerally mean you have weaker bones, so it’s entirely possible that you’ve fractured them easily
get your doctor to do a bone density scan
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
Hot and Cold Topical Therapy Manufacturing in the US Industry Market Research Report Now Available from IBISWorld
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) June 13, 2012
The Hot and Cold Topical Therapy Manufacturing industry has been resilient during the five years to 2012, with revenue expected to increase 2.1% annually on average to $ 1.3 billion during the period. According to IBISWorld industry analyst Sophia Snyder, This moderate revenue growth has mainly been due to product advancements, the aging population and regulatory standards that require the use of certain industry products. Guidelines for professional use of certain industry products were put in place in 2005, but more physicians have been following the recommendations during recent years, which has enhanced demand. Additionally, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid implemented standards to use certain hot and cold therapies in 2009. More research continues to be conducted to demonstrate the treatment and cost benefits of hot and cold therapies for use in professional (i.e. hospital) settings and by individual users.
The Great Recession reduced disposable income, which in turn curbed spending among consumers on hot and cold topical therapies that are used for home-based and self-provided care. In contrast, the professional healthcare market grew during the recession. Hot and cold therapies have been shown to lower total costs in this market by reducing infections and other complications. As healthcare providers looked for methods to reduce spending during the recession, says Snyder, the industry’s progressively effective products grew in appeal. In 2012, the Hot and Cold Topical Therapy Manufacturing industry is expected to get a boost from the combination of the improving economic environment and continuing cost pressures in the provider market. During the year, growth is expected to accelerate to 2.5%. The top three players in the industry Stryker Corporation, CR Bard Inc. and Zoll Medical Corporation together account for less than a quarter of this fragmented industry’s revenue.
The aging population and rising disposable income is forecast to bolster demand during the five years to 2017; during this time, revenue is projected to grow. Meanwhile, the professional healthcare market is forecast to pressure prices for industry products as hospitals and other providers move toward larger practices. This trend will encourage further consolidation within the industry, as larger manufacturers will be better equipped to negotiate with bigger healthcare providers. During the five years to 2017, the number of operators is forecast to decrease. Despite consolidation, industry profitability is forecast to decrease slightly due to the implementation of a medical device tax on many industry operators as part of healthcare reform legislation. For more information, visit IBISWorlds Hot and Cold Topical Therapy Manufacturing in the US industry report page.
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IBISWorld industry Report Key Topics
This industry manufactures devices, including pouches and sacks, that provide therapy for issues like arthritis, cold tumors, poliomyelitis, pelvic diseases, malignant ulcers, homeostasis, analgesic, soft tissue inflammation and other ailments.
Industry Performance
Executive Summary
Key External Drivers
Current Performance
Industry Outlook
Industry Life Cycle
Products & Markets
Supply Chain
Products & Services
Major Markets
Globalization & Trade
Business Locations
Competitive Landscape
Market Share Concentration
Key Success Factors
Cost Structure Benchmarks
Barriers to Entry
Major Companies
Operating Conditions
Capital Intensity
Key Statistics
Industry Data
Annual Change
Key Ratios
About IBISWorld Inc.
Recognized as the nations most trusted independent source of industry and market research, IBISWorld offers a comprehensive database of unique information and analysis on every US industry. With an extensive online portfolio, valued for its depth and scope, the company equips clients with the insight necessary to make better business decisions. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IBISWorld serves a range of business, professional service and government organizations through more than 10 locations worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.ibisworld.com or call 1-800-330-3772.
Peripheral Artery Disease: A Hidden Problem in Women, from the Harvard Women’s Health Watch
Boston, MA (PRWEB) April 13, 2012
If ever a disease deserved a new name, peripheral artery disease is it. “Peripheral” smacks of something on the sidelines. Nothing could be further from the truth. Peripheral artery disease affects at least 12 million Americans, more than heart disease and stroke combined. It kills some, maims others, and makes life disagreeable or unbearable for countless more. The condition is often overlooked or misdiagnosed in women, according to the April 2012 Harvard Women’s Health Watch.
Although peripheral artery disease usually affects the legs, it can also affect the arms. Symptoms include:
pain, cramping, or heaviness with exercise or movement that subsides with rest
painful, cold, numb, or tingling legs or hands
sores on the legs, feet, arms, or hands that don’t heal.
Any of these symptoms warrant a closer look. Peripheral artery disease is generally diagnosed with a test called the ankle-brachial index, which compares blood pressure in the arm with blood pressure at the ankle.
Lifestyle changes are often the first step in fighting peripheral artery disease. Exercise can help open arteries and improve blood flow. Managing cholesterol and blood pressure, and not smoking, are also important. Some people with peripheral artery disease need to have bypass surgery or artery-opening angioplasty, which may include placing a stent to improve blood flow to the affected arm or leg.
Women tend to develop symptoms of peripheral artery disease in their 60s and 70sa decade later than men. By then, women may have other conditions like arthritis or nerve damage that can mask the symptoms and delay diagnosis until the disease is fairly far advanced. If you have any of the symptoms listed above, ask your doctor if you should have a workup for peripheral artery disease. Early action can make you feel better, and keep your arms and legs functioning.
Read the full-length article: “Peripheral artery disease”
Also in this issue:
How often should women have their bone mineral density checked?
Emergency contraceptive pill helps treat fibroids
Spinal manipulation and exercise trump drugs for neck pain
Are generic drugs the same as brand-name drugs?
The Harvard Women’s Health Watch is available from Harvard Health Publications, the publishing division of Harvard Medical School, for $ 29 per year. Subscribe at http://www.health.harvard.edu/womens or by calling 877-649-9457 (toll-free).
Media: Contact Natalie Ramm at hhpmedia(at)hms(dot)harvard(dot)edu for a complimentary copy of the newsletter, or to receive our press releases directly.