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Read our latest stories on the people and scientific innovations making a difference in patients’ lives.
Why You May Need an Eczema Care Team
If you have atopic dermatitis—the most common type of eczema—you may be all too familiar with the periodic flare-ups and the itching that often is worse at night and can interfere with sleep. Along with atopic dermatitis, you may have other co-occurring conditions such as food allergies or asthma. You may also have an increased risk for co-existing conditions such as skin infections, heart disease, cancer, depression or anxiety. These issues can have both an emotional and social impact on...
How to Safely Buy Medicine Online
There’s no limit to the types of products you can purchase online. You can even purchase prescription medicine over the Internet. Ordering your prescription online does provide some degree of ease because the medicine is delivered to your home. However, this convenience can come at a cost. In the United States, it is believed that the majority of counterfeit medicines are purchased online. Counterfeit—or fake—drugs can be dangerous because they can have the wrong ingredients, no active...
Clinical Trial Practices—Safeguards in Research
If you or a loved one is considering joining a clinical trial, you may be happy to know that research studies today have strict safeguards, standards of ethics, and are highly regulated. In many cases, participating in this type of research may be one of the most closely monitored types of medical treatment available. The clinical trial process is different than it used to be, yet unfortunately the accounts and memory of practices that no longer exist may still make people uneasy about...
Joining a Clinical Trial: What to Know Before You Enroll
As a scientist who has been involved in running clinical trials for the past 30 years, I have seen first-hand how patients have contributed to and benefited from participating in a clinical trial. I am very pleased to have this opportunity to thank all of the many clinical trial participants who have taken part in research over the years. Because they enrolled in trials, new promising therapies have been understood in terms of safety and efficacy, and new therapies have become available to...
When Should You Speak Up at the Doctor’s Office?
We’ve all seen the healthcare system undergo major changes. Providers, patients, and policymakers all share the desire for these changes to result in improved access, enhanced quality for patients and reduced healthcare costs within the system. And though it used to be common for patients to be relatively passive when receiving care, you may now find yourself being invited to participate more fully in the process of your own health and wellbeing. This is true whether you have a chronic condition...
What to Ask a Doctor about a New Treatment or Diagnosis
Sometimes getting a new diagnosis from your doctor can be a scary experience. It may be a surprise and—depending on the medical problem—it can impact the rest of your life. Make sure you talk with your doctor and ask key questions to ensure that you fully understand your medical diagnosis and treatment options. Questions for Your Doctor There are some general questions you may ask your doctor when you are given a new diagnosis or recommendation for a new treatment. Remember the 5Ws and an...
Answers to Common Questions About Anesthesia
At some point in our lives, we might undergo some form of medical procedure that requires anesthesia. While you may know that anesthesia is a medical treatment used to prevent people from feeling pain during surgery, you may have questions about the different types of anesthesia, how they work, and their overall safety profile. The information below can answer some of those questions. What are the different types of anesthesia and when are they used? There are 3 main types of anesthesia...
5 Simple Tips for Talking With Your Doctor
Most people know that seeing their doctor regularly is an important part of staying healthy. During your visits, it’s important to talk openly and honestly with your doctor. Doing so can help him or her work with you to best manage your overall health. Below are some tips to help you get started. 1. Choose a doctor you’re comfortable talking with. If you don’t already have a primary care doctor or are thinking of getting a new one, take the time to find one you are at ease with. Keep in...
Answers To Your Questions About Prescription Medicine
Have you ever wanted to ask a question about your medicine? But maybe you thought it was a silly question that was not worth bothering your healthcare provider about. Below are answers to some common questions you may have about your medicine. Always talk with your healthcare provider about taking, storing, and disposing of your specific medicines. Q: I’m experiencing a symptom that I think may be caused by my medicine. Can I take less of it? A: You should never change the amount of...
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