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  • Penile Adhesions & Skin Bridges in Children

    Penile Adhesions & Skin Bridges in Children


    By: Hatim Thaker, MD, FAAP

    A penile adhesion is a condition where the skin of the penis, or the foreskin in uncircumcised boys, sticks to head of the penis. When these adhesions become dense, they can permanently fuse the skin to the head of the penis. This is called a skin bridge.

    While this is not a dangerous condition, penile adhesions and skin bridges can sometimes cause discomfort and differences in cosmetic appearance. Here are answers to common questions parents may have.

    What causes penile adhesions or skin bridges in babies and children?

    After a circumcision, any excess foreskin or penile skin may “ride up” along the shaft of the penis and get stuck to the head. Similarly, if a boy has excess fatty tissue at the base of the penis (or suprapubic region), the head of the penis can “sink in” and become surrounded by extra skin (sometimes referred to as “buried” or hidden penis). In both situations, there is a risk of adherence between the two skin surfaces.

    For
    uncircumcised infants, it is normal that the foreskin does not retract completely to expose the head of the penis. However, if the foreskin does not become supple enough to fall back naturally, this may lead to more troublesome adhesions.

    A consultation with your pediatrician, or a
    pediatric urologist, can help distinguish which conditions require treatments, and which do not.

    What are the symptoms of penile adhesions and skin bridges?

    This condition typically has no symptoms, though in some cases, the foreskin may become irritated or inflamed. In older boys, dense adhesions may cause discomfort during erections.

    How do I take care of and treat penile adhesions?

    Not all penile adhesions need therapy, as some children may outgrow the condition naturally. If needed, a topical steroid ointment can be applied to the adhesions twice daily for six weeks. This will soften the foreskin to make it easier to retract the skin and expose the head of the penis.

    Some dense adhesions, especially skin bridges, may not improve with topical ointments. These adhesions can be removed in the office with a topical anesthetic, or in the operating room under anesthesia.

    Mild adhesions can develop into permanent skin bridges after circumcision. As a parent, ensuring that penile skin does not tether itself to the head of the penis during the healing process after circumcision will help prevent adhesions. This can be done by gently pulling the penile skin down.

    In addition, general penile hygiene is always important. In the areas beneath the adhesion, dead skin cells can accumulate and form a white paste. This is called “smegma“. This should be gently wiped away during
    diaper changes or cleansed during
    baths.

    More information

    About Dr. Thaker


    Hatim Thaker, MD, FAAP, is a Fellow of Pediatric Urology at Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School. He completed his residency training at the University o
    Hatim Thaker, MD, FAAP, is a pediatric urologist at Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School. He completed his residency training at the University of Southern California/LA County Medical Center, and a 3-year fellowship at Boston Children’s Hospital. Dr. Thaker has a clinical interest in robotic reconstructive surgery, genitourinary oncology, neurogenic bladder and urodynamics. Within the American Academy of Pediatrics, he is a member of the Section on Urology.


    The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

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  • RFK Jr Forced to Take Back His Words After Accusing Lawmaker of Accepting Millions From the Pharmaceutical Industry

    RFK Jr Forced to Take Back His Words After Accusing Lawmaker of Accepting Millions From the Pharmaceutical Industry

    Heath Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was forced to walk back his words after he accused a Democratic lawmaker of accepting millions from the pharmaceutical industry, and claimed that those contributions affected his ability to do his job.

    The request for RFK Jr. to do so came after a heated exchange with New Jersey Rep. Frank Pallone, where the lawmaker questioned him over the recent firing of a vaccine advisory committee.

    “You have made a number of major decisions about vaccines, and there’s been no public comment process or public accountability on that either. What are you afraid of? With regard to vaccines, are you just afraid to receive public comments on proposals?” Pallone asked.


    “We have a public process for regulating vaccines. It’s called the ACIP committee and it’s a public meeting—” RFK Jr. responded before Pallone cut him off.

    “You fired the committee,” he stated. The health secretary let go of all 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices earlier this month. At the time, Kennedy defended the decision, saying that the Trump administration would not have been able to appoint most new members until 2028.

    During the Tuesday hearing, RFK Jr. stated that he “fired people who had conflicts with the pharmaceutical industry.” He claimed that the “committee has been a template for medical malpractice for years.”

    Pallone went on to accuse Kennedy of being “anti-science and anti-vaccine.”

    The health secretary later appeared to accuse Pallone of letting political donations impact his work and stances, particularly on issues having to do with the pharmaceutical industry.

    “Fifteen years ago, [when] you and I met, you were at that time a champion for people who had suffered injuries from vaccines. You were very adamant about it, you were the leading member of Congress on that issue,” Kennedy said.


    “Since then you’ve accepted $2 million dollars from pharmaceutical companies in contribution — more than any other member of this committee. Your enthusiasm for supporting the old ACIP committee, which was completely rife and pervasive with pharmaceutical conflicts, seems to be an outcome of those conflicts,” he continued.

    Kennedy’s assertion prompted Colorado Rep. Diana DeGette to jump in and ask him to retract the statement.

    “The secretary implied that Mr. Pallone would not fight for vaccine victims because he took money from the pharmaceutical industry. He needs to take back those words,” she said.

    RFK Jr. then agreed to “retract those words” following a request from the chairman of the Health Subcommittee for the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

    Originally published on Latin Times



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  • Mens Mental Health E-course

    Mens Mental Health E-course

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  • A 10 Minute Body Scan That You Can Practice

    A 10 Minute Body Scan That You Can Practice

    Explore this guided practice to calm your mind, notice sensations in the body, and bring awareness to the present moment.

    We’re practicing mindfulness each time that we bring attention to a body part and are aware that we are doing so. Practicing mindfulness through this 10-minute body scan involves moving attention through various parts of the body. You will notice sensations that are present in your feet or hands or legs such as tingling, tightness, temperature, or you might notice a lack of sensation; simply be aware of it.

    We’re practicing mindfulness each time that we bring attention to a body part and are aware that we are doing so.

    We typically do the body scan by lying down on the floor or a soft surface, but if that’s not possible for you, you can certainly do the body scan while sitting in a chair.

    A 10-Minute Body Scan Practice

    As we begin this 10-minute body scan, we’ll be slowly and systematically moving attention through the various regions of the body, from the feet to the top of the head, noting any physical sensations as we go along.

    1. As you are lying on whatever surface you’re on, notice what it feels like to be lying there. Noticing the sensations present in this moment, noticing temperature, noticing points of contact with the body and the surface, noticing the rise and the fall of the abdomen. Allowing the body to rest in this position and noticing sensations as you breathe in and as you breathe out.
    2. Left foot and leg: Feeling the air move in and out of your body, let’s begin by bringing attention to the toes of your left foot. With the in-breath, noticing the sensations present or lack of sensation. And then with an out-breath, letting go of the toes and move your attention to the bottom of the left foot, including the heel touching the floor. Noticing all the sensations present in that region of the body, also notice how lack of sensation is something the mind can be aware of. Move on to the top of your left foot and ankle, noticing sensation. Now moving to the lower leg, knee, thigh, and hip on the left side of the body.
    3. Right foot and leg: Moving awareness, now, to the toes of the right foot, the bottom of the right foot, including the heel touching the floor. Bringing awareness to the sensations present in that part of the body. Moving on to the top of your right foot and ankle and scanning that region with awareness, noticing sensations present or lack of sensation. Now move into the lower leg, knee, thigh, and hip on the right side of the body.
    4. Pelvis: Bringing awareness now to the pelvic region, noticing sensations present or lack of sensation.
    5. Lower back and abdomen: Bringing awareness to the lower back and abdomen, aware of what’s there, without judgment or assessment, simply noticing with awareness.
    6. Upper back, ribs, and chest: Continuing to scan the back, the rib cage, and chest.
    7. Shoulders: Moving now to the shoulder blades and shoulders, noticing what is present in those regions of the body.
    8. Fingers and hands: From here, go to the fingers and the hands, the left and right together. Tuning into the fingers, thumbs, palms, back of the hands, wrists, noticing what’s there, noticing sensations present in the hands and the fingers.
    9. Wrists and arms: Now moving awareness to the wrists, forearms, elbows, upper arms, and shoulders, and noticing what sensations are present in those regions of the body. On an out-breath, let go of the whole of the arms and the hands.
    10. Neck and throat: Moving now to the neck and the throat, noticing what is there or not there.
    11. Head: Moving on to the head and face, and scanning with awareness the jaw, and the chin, the lips, the teeth, and gums, roof of the mouth, tongue, the back of the throat, the cheeks, and the nose. Feeling the air moving in and out of the nose. Then bringing awareness to the ears, the eyes, the eyelids, eyebrows, forehead, temples, and scalp, holding the whole of that region with awareness.
    12. Now, notice the breath: Stay in the present moment with the breath flowing in and out of the body, simply awake to whatever arises and predominates in your field of awareness at any given moment. And this may include thoughts or feelings, sensations, sounds, the breath, stillness, and silence. Be with whatever comes up in the same way you were with the scan.
    13. Notice how you may tend to react to impulses, thoughts, memories, and worries: Let yourself purposefully observe them without rejecting or pursuing. Practice simply seeing and letting go, seeing and letting go. No agenda other than to be present and awake.
    14. Closing:  In a moment, you’ll hear the sound of the chimes and move the awareness from the body to the sound. And as you follow the last sound to the end, gradually wiggle the toes and move the feet and stretch in whatever way you like. Coming back into the room, fully awake and fully present.

    As we bring this 10-minute body scan practice to a close, may we be peaceful and at ease, may our hearts be soft and open, may we be safe and protected, and our bodies healthy and strong. And for all of those known and unknown to us, may they be peaceful and at ease, may their hearts be soft and open, may they be safe and protected and their bodies healthy and strong. May the merit of this practice be for the benefit of all beings.

    Introduction text adapted from Harvard Pilgrim. This practice was originally published on Mindful.org in October 2018.



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  • Relationship Rescue: How a Life Coach Can Help You Heal and Grow

    Relationship Rescue: How a Life Coach Can Help You Heal and Grow

    Introduction to Relationship Rescue

    In today’s fast-paced world, relationships can be a significant source of stress, anxiety, and emotional pain. Whether it’s a romantic partnership, a family bond, or a friendship, relationships can be challenging to navigate. When conflicts arise, it’s not uncommon for individuals to feel lost, helpless, and unsure of how to move forward. This is where a life coach can be incredibly beneficial. A life coach can help you rescue your relationship by providing guidance, support, and practical tools to heal and grow. In this article, we’ll explore the ways in which a life coach can help you rescue your relationship and provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to create a more fulfilling and meaningful connection with others.

    Understanding the Role of a Life Coach

    A life coach is a professional who helps individuals identify and achieve their personal and professional goals. They work with clients to uncover their values, passions, and strengths, and develop a plan to overcome obstacles and challenges. When it comes to relationship rescue, a life coach can help you identify the root causes of conflict and develop strategies to improve communication, build trust, and strengthen your bond with others. Life coaches are not therapists, but rather mentors who provide guidance and support to help you achieve your goals.

    Identifying the Signs of a Troubled Relationship

    Before seeking the help of a life coach, it’s essential to recognize the signs of a troubled relationship. These may include:

    • Frequent arguments and conflicts

    • Feeling unheard, unseen, or unappreciated

    • Lack of intimacy or emotional connection

    • Trust issues or feelings of betrayal

    • Difficulty communicating effectively

    • Feeling stuck or stagnant in the relationship

    If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it may be time to seek the help of a life coach. A life coach can help you identify the underlying causes of your relationship problems and develop a plan to address them.

    How a Life Coach Can Help You Heal and Grow

    A life coach can help you heal and grow in several ways:

    • Improved Communication: A life coach can help you develop effective communication skills, including active listening, assertiveness, and conflict resolution. By improving your communication skills, you can better express your needs, desires, and feelings to your partner, which can help to reduce conflict and strengthen your bond.

    • Increased Self-Awareness: A life coach can help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, including your values, passions, and strengths. By increasing your self-awareness, you can better understand your role in the relationship and make positive changes to improve your interactions with others.

    • Building Trust: A life coach can help you develop strategies to build trust, including setting boundaries, being reliable, and following through on commitments. By building trust, you can create a safer and more secure environment in your relationship, which can help to reduce conflict and improve intimacy.

    • Managing Conflict: A life coach can help you develop strategies to manage conflict, including staying calm, listening actively, and seeking common ground. By managing conflict effectively, you can reduce the stress and anxiety associated with arguments and improve your overall relationship satisfaction.

    The Benefits of Working with a Life Coach

    Working with a life coach can have numerous benefits, including:

    • Improved Relationship Satisfaction: By developing effective communication skills, building trust, and managing conflict, you can improve your overall relationship satisfaction and create a more fulfilling and meaningful connection with others.

    • Increased Confidence: A life coach can help you develop the confidence you need to express yourself effectively, set boundaries, and advocate for your needs and desires.

    • Better Stress Management: A life coach can help you develop strategies to manage stress and anxiety, which can help to reduce conflict and improve your overall well-being.

    • Greater Self-Awareness: By working with a life coach, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself, including your values, passions, and strengths, which can help you make positive changes in your life and improve your relationships.

    What to Expect from a Life Coaching Session

    If you’re considering working with a life coach, it’s essential to understand what to expect from a coaching session. A typical coaching session may include:

    • Introduction and Goal Setting: The life coach will introduce themselves, explain the coaching process, and help you set goals for your relationship.

    • Exploring Your Relationship: The life coach will ask you questions about your relationship, including your history, challenges, and desires.

    • Identifying Patterns and Challenges: The life coach will help you identify patterns and challenges in your relationship, including communication styles, conflict management, and trust issues.

    • Developing Strategies and Solutions: The life coach will work with you to develop strategies and solutions to address the challenges and patterns you’ve identified.

    • Accountability and Support: The life coach will provide you with accountability and support to help you stay on track and achieve your goals.

    Choosing the Right Life Coach

    When choosing a life coach, it’s essential to consider several factors, including:

    • Experience and Qualifications: Look for a life coach with experience working with clients on relationship issues and qualifications in coaching, psychology, or a related field.

    • Personal Connection: Choose a life coach with whom you feel a personal connection, including a sense of trust, empathy, and understanding.

    • Coaching Style: Consider the coaching style of the life coach, including their approach to communication, conflict resolution, and goal setting.

    • Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients to get a sense of the life coach’s effectiveness and success rate.

    Conclusion

    Relationship rescue is possible with the help of a life coach. By providing guidance, support, and practical tools, a life coach can help you heal and grow, improving your communication skills, building trust, and managing conflict. When choosing a life coach, consider their experience, qualifications, personal connection, coaching style, and reviews. With the right life coach, you can create a more fulfilling and meaningful connection with others and achieve your relationship goals.

    FAQs

    Q: What is a life coach, and how can they help me with my relationship?
    A: A life coach is a professional who helps individuals identify and achieve their personal and professional goals. They can help you with your relationship by providing guidance, support, and practical tools to improve communication, build trust, and manage conflict.
    Q: How do I know if I need a life coach?
    A: If you’re experiencing challenges in your relationship, including frequent arguments, feeling unheard or unappreciated, or difficulty communicating effectively, it may be time to seek the help of a life coach.
    Q: What can I expect from a life coaching session?
    A: A typical coaching session may include introduction and goal setting, exploring your relationship, identifying patterns and challenges, developing strategies and solutions, and accountability and support.
    Q: How do I choose the right life coach?
    A: Consider the life coach’s experience, qualifications, personal connection, coaching style, and reviews when choosing the right coach for you.
    Q: Can a life coach guarantee success in my relationship?
    A: While a life coach can provide guidance and support, they cannot guarantee success in your relationship. Success depends on your willingness to work on your relationship and make positive changes.

  • 10 Simple Ways to Sneak in Exercise During a Busy Day: Boost Energy and Fitness (Target keywords: sneak in exercise, busy day, boost energy, fitness)

    10 Simple Ways to Sneak in Exercise During a Busy Day: Boost Energy and Fitness (Target keywords: sneak in exercise, busy day, boost energy, fitness)

    She knows that exercising during a busy day can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With a little creativity, one can easily sneak in exercise and boost energy levels, even on the most chaotic of days. The key is to incorporate physical activity into daily routines, making it a seamless part of a busy lifestyle. In this article, we’ll explore 10 simple ways to sneak in exercise during a busy day, helping to boost energy and fitness.

    ### Understanding the Importance of Exercise

    Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. It helps to increase energy levels, improve mood, and reduce stress. However, with increasingly busy schedules, it can be difficult to find time for a traditional gym workout. This is where sneaking in exercise comes in – by incorporating physical activity into daily routines, individuals can stay active and healthy, even on the most hectic of days. Sneaking in exercise can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing a few jumping jacks during commercial breaks while watching TV.

    ### 1. Start with Small Moments

    One of the easiest ways to sneak in exercise during a busy day is to start with small moments. This can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths and stretching in the morning, or doing a quick 5-minute workout during a lunch break. By incorporating small moments of physical activity into daily routines, individuals can boost energy levels and set themselves up for a healthier day. For example, she can try doing a few push-ups or squats during commercial breaks while watching her favorite TV show, helping to sneak in exercise and boost fitness.

    ### 2. Take a Walking Break

    Taking a walking break is another great way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. Whether it’s a short walk around the block or a longer walk during a lunch break, getting outside and moving can help to boost energy levels and improve mood. She can try scheduling a walking break into her daily planner, or simply taking a few minutes to stretch her legs and get some fresh air. By incorporating walking into her daily routine, she can sneak in exercise and improve her overall fitness.

    ### 3. Use Household Chores as Exercise

    Household chores can be a great way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. Activities like vacuuming, mopping, and gardening can all be considered forms of physical activity, helping to boost energy levels and improve fitness. She can try turning household chores into a workout by adding music and moving quickly, or by incorporating strength training exercises into her cleaning routine. By using household chores as exercise, she can sneak in physical activity and stay healthy, even on the most chaotic of days.

    ### 4. Try Desk Exercises

    Desk exercises are another great way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. Whether it’s chair squats, desk push-ups, or leg raises, there are plenty of exercises that can be done from the comfort of a desk. She can try incorporating desk exercises into her daily routine, doing a few reps during commercial breaks or while waiting for a meeting to start. By sneaking in exercise at her desk, she can boost energy levels and improve her overall fitness.

    ### 5. Use Stairs Instead of Elevators

    Using stairs instead of elevators is a simple way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. By opting for the stairs, individuals can get their heart rate up and work on their leg strength, all while boosting energy levels. She can try making a conscious effort to take the stairs whenever possible, whether it’s at work or in her home. By incorporating stair climbing into her daily routine, she can sneak in exercise and improve her overall fitness.

    ### 6. Try Bodyweight Exercises

    Bodyweight exercises are a great way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. Activities like push-ups, squats, and lunges can all be done without any equipment, making them perfect for a quick workout at home or in the office. She can try incorporating bodyweight exercises into her daily routine, doing a few reps during commercial breaks or while waiting for a meeting to start. By sneaking in exercise with bodyweight exercises, she can boost energy levels and improve her overall fitness.

    ### 7. Take the Long Way

    Taking the long way is another great way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. Whether it’s walking to a coworker’s desk instead of sending an email or taking a longer route to a meeting, individuals can easily incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines. She can try making a conscious effort to take the long way whenever possible, using the extra time to get some exercise and boost energy levels. By incorporating more physical activity into her daily routine, she can sneak in exercise and improve her overall fitness.

    ### 8. Try Active Commuting

    Active commuting is a great way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. Whether it’s walking, biking, or taking public transportation, individuals can easily incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines. She can try making a conscious effort to use active commuting methods, using the extra time to get some exercise and boost energy levels. By incorporating active commuting into her daily routine, she can sneak in exercise and improve her overall fitness.

    ### 9. Use Waiting Time

    Using waiting time is another great way to sneak in exercise during a busy day. Whether it’s waiting in line, waiting for a meeting to start, or waiting for a coffee, individuals can easily incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines. She can try doing a few jumping jacks, stretching, or doing some leg raises while waiting, helping to boost energy levels and improve fitness. By incorporating physical activity into waiting time, she can sneak in exercise and stay healthy, even on the most chaotic of days.

    ### 10. Make it Fun

    Finally, making exercise fun is a great way to sneak in physical activity during a busy day. Whether it’s putting on music and dancing, playing with kids, or trying a new workout routine, individuals can easily incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines. She can try finding activities that she enjoys and making them a part of her daily routine, helping to boost energy levels and improve fitness. By making exercise fun, she can sneak in physical activity and stay healthy, even on the most hectic of days.

    ### Conclusion

    In conclusion, sneaking in exercise during a busy day is easier than one might think. By incorporating physical activity into daily routines, individuals can boost energy levels, improve mood, and reduce stress. Whether it’s taking the stairs, doing desk exercises, or using household chores as exercise, there are plenty of ways to sneak in exercise and stay healthy. By making a conscious effort to incorporate physical activity into daily routines, individuals can improve their overall fitness and well-being, even on the most chaotic of days. So, the next time she’s feeling busy and overwhelmed, she can try sneaking in some exercise and seeing the difference it can make.

    ### FAQs

    Q: How can I sneak in exercise during a busy day?
    A: There are plenty of ways to sneak in exercise during a busy day, including taking the stairs, doing desk exercises, using household chores as exercise, and incorporating physical activity into daily routines.

    Q: What are some simple exercises I can do at my desk?
    A: Some simple exercises that can be done at a desk include chair squats, desk push-ups, and leg raises. Individuals can also try incorporating stretching and movement into their daily routine.

    Q: How can I make exercise more enjoyable?
    A: Making exercise more enjoyable is all about finding activities that one enjoys and making them a part of daily routines. Whether it’s putting on music and dancing, playing with kids, or trying a new workout routine, individuals can easily incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines and make exercise more fun.

    Q: Can I really boost energy levels by sneaking in exercise?
    A: Yes, sneaking in exercise can really help to boost energy levels. By incorporating physical activity into daily routines, individuals can improve their overall fitness and well-being, reducing stress and improving mood.

    Q: How often should I sneak in exercise during a busy day?
    A: The frequency of sneaking in exercise will depend on individual schedules and routines. However, incorporating physical activity into daily routines, even if it’s just a few minutes a day, can make a big difference in overall fitness and well-being. She can try aiming to sneak in exercise at least a few times a day, and seeing how it can improve her energy levels and overall health.
    10-simple-ways-to-sneak-in-exercise-during-a-busy-day-boost-energy-and-fitness-target-keywords-sneak-in-exercise-busy-day-boost-energy-fitness

  • What does it mean to have a heart attack?

    What does it mean to have a heart attack?


    photo of a senior man clutching his chest as if in pain; a glowing red area and an electrocardiogram reading are superimposed on his hand

    Envision a heart attack, and you probably think of someone clutching his chest in agony, being rushed to the hospital, maybe even dying before he arrives. While this scenario does occur, the reality is often quite different.

    The reason is that heart attacks don’t follow a linear path. Symptoms can be severe or subtle. The underlying process that causes a heart attack can differ. People may experience significant heart damage or little to none.

    “Not all heart attacks strike in the same way, so diagnosing a heart attack requires the combination of a doctor’s judgment, signs and symptoms, and test results,” says Dr. Peter Libby, a cardiologist with the Heart and Vascular Center at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

    What exactly is a heart attack?

    Most heart attacks occur when one of the coronary arteries (the vessels that supply blood to the heart) is unable to deliver enough blood to an area of the heart, or to deliver any at all. The most common underlying cause is formation of fatty plaque in one or more coronary arteries.

    There are two different mechanisms that cause this compromised blood flow. Doctors define them as type 1 and type 2 heart attacks. “The distinction is important because the various types of heart attacks may be treated entirely differently,” says Dr. Libby. Here is a look at each one.

    Type 1. With a type 1 heart attack, the cap over a plaque deposit ruptures and releases chemicals that trigger the formation of a blood clot. The clot blocks the artery, interfering with blood flow to part of the heart.

    Type 2. A type 2 heart attack does not involve a ruptured plaque. Instead, it happens when there is a mismatch between the amount of blood a portion of the heart muscle needs and the blood supply in the coronary artery feeding that area of the heart.

    The trigger for this type of heart attack can be a condition that puts extra stress on the heart, like the flu or pneumonia, an abnormal heart rhythm resulting in an accelerated heart rate, or a significant spike in blood pressure.

    Heart attack symptoms

    When a heart attack strikes, it can trigger a variety of symptoms. The most common is the stereotypical chest pain, usually described as crushing, squeezing, pressing, heavy, or occasionally stabbing or burning.

    Chest pain tends to be focused either in the center of the chest or just below the center of the rib cage, and it can spread to the arms, abdomen, neck, or lower jaw. It’s also possible to have a heart attack and not know it. This is known as a silent heart attack. Symptoms lack the intensity of a classic heart attack. Instead, they can appear as chest discomfort that comes and goes; pain in one or both arms, neck, or jaw; sudden shortness of breath; breaking out in a cold sweat; or feeling nauseated or lightheaded. “Because these symptoms can feel so mild and brief, they often get confused for regular discomforts like indigestion or heartburn,” says Dr. Libby.

    Diagnosing a heart attack

    If you have any suspicion that you may be having a heart attack, don’t hesitate: call 911. Once you arrive for medical care, the staff will do a quick review of your symptoms.

    With any concern for a heart attack, the doctor will immediately order an electrocardiogram (ECG) and a blood test to measure levels of troponin, a protein in heart muscle cells that spills into the bloodstream when any type of heart damage occurs.

    Doctors look for high troponin levels and certain changes in the electrical pattern on the ECG to make a diagnosis. Both tests are used because either one can be normal or show only minimal changes in the earliest stage of a heart attack.

    In fact, even with normal ECG and troponin results, emergency department doctors will begin immediate treatment if your symptoms are highly suggestive of a heart attack, especially if you have multiple heart risk factors.

    Initial treatment

    If your test results suggest you’re having either a type 1 or type 2 heart attack, most often the doctor will give you several pills right away. These include aspirin; a high-dose statin, such as atorvastatin (Lipitor) or rosuvastatin (Crestor); and a beta blocker to slow your heart rate and reduce heart stress. You’ll also get an intravenous infusion of heparin, a drug that discourages blood clotting.

    If you’re diagnosed with a likely type 1 heart attack with full artery blockage, the doctor will probably send you to the cardiac catheterization lab for angioplasty and stent placement, a minimally invasive procedure to clear the artery and prop it open. This can restore blood flow to the injured heart muscle and minimize permanent damage.

    For a type 2 diagnosis, the goal is to restore the mismatch between blood supply and demand. In addition to the medications noted above, you’ll need treatment for any medical problem that stressed the heart, such as an infection or an abnormally fast heart rhythm.

    Once your condition is stable, your doctor will design a strategy to help with recovery.

    “The goal after the first heart attack is simple — to prevent a second one, and prevent further weakening of the heart muscle that can lead to heart failure,” says Dr. Libby. This includes diet changes, exercising regularly, a personalized medication regimen, and perhaps referral for cardiac rehabilitation.



    Image: © champpixs/Getty Images

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  • Eating with Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism 

    Eating with Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism 

    Is the apparent protection of plant-based diets for thyroid health due to the exclusion of animal foods, the benefits of plant foods, or both?

    Several autoimmune diseases affect the thyroid gland, and Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are the most common. Graves’ disease results in hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland. Though slaughter plants are supposed to remove animals’ thyroid glands as they “shall not be used for human food,” should some neck meat slip in, you can suffer a similar syndrome called Hamburger thyrotoxicosis. That isn’t from your body making too much thyroid hormone, though. Rather, it’s from your body eating too much thyroid hormone. Graves’ disease is much more common, and meat-free diets may be able to help with both diseases, as plant-based diets may be associated with a low prevalence of autoimmune disease in general, as observed, for example, in rural sub-Saharan Africa. Maybe it’s because plants are packed with “high amounts of antioxidants, possible protective factors against autoimmune disease,” or because they’re packed with anti-inflammatory compounds. After all, “consuming whole, plant-based foods is synonymous with an anti-inflammatory diet.” But you don’t know until you put it to the test.

    It turns out that the “exclusion of all animal foods was associated with half the prevalence of hyperthyroidism compared with omnivorous diets. Lacto-ovo [dairy-and-egg] and pesco [fish] vegetarian diets were associated with intermediate protection.” But, for those eating strictly plant-based, there is a 52 percent lower odds of hyperthyroidism.

    As I discuss in my video The Best Diet for Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism, this apparent protection “may be due to the exclusion of animal foods, the [beneficial] effects of plant foods, or both. Animal foods like meat, eggs, and dairy products may contain high oestrogen concentrations, which have been linked to autoimmunity in cell and animal studies.” Or it could be because the decrease in animal protein by excluding animal foods may downregulate IGF-1, which is not just a cancer-promoting growth hormone, but may play a role in autoimmune diseases. The protection could also come from the goodness in plants that may “protect cells against autoimmune processes,” like the polyphenol phytochemicals, such as flavonoids found in plant foods. Maybe it’s because environmental toxins build up in the food chain. For example, fish contaminated with industrial pollutants, like PCBs, are associated with an increased frequency of thyroid disorders.

    But what about the other autoimmune thyroid disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which, assuming you’re getting enough iodine, is the primary cause of hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid gland? Graves’ disease wasn’t the only autoimmune disorder that was rare or virtually unknown among those living in rural sub-Saharan Africa, eating near-vegan diets. They also appeared to have less Hashimoto’s.

    There is evidence that those with Hashimoto’s have compromised antioxidant status, but we don’t know if it’s cause or effect. But if you look at the dietary factors associated with blood levels of autoimmune anti-thyroid antibodies, animal fats seem to be associated with higher levels, whereas vegetables and other plant foods are associated with lower levels. So, again, anti-inflammatory diets may be useful. It’s no surprise, as Hashimoto’s is an inflammatory disease—that’s what thyroiditis means: inflammation of the thyroid gland.

    Another possibility is the reduction in intake of methionine, an amino acid concentrated in animal protein, thought to be one reason why “regular consumption of whole-food vegan diets is likely to have a favourable influence on longevity through decreasing the risk of cancer, coronary [heart] disease, and diabetes.” Methionine restriction improves thyroid function in mice, but it has yet to be put to the test for Hashimoto’s in humans.

    If you compare the poop of patients with Hashimoto’s to controls, the condition appears to be related to a clear reduction in the concentration of Prevotella species. Prevotella are good fiber-eating bugs known to enhance anti-inflammatory activities. Decreased Prevotella levels are also something you see in other autoimmune conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes. How do you get more Prevotella? Eat more plants. If a vegetarian goes on a diet of meat, eggs, and dairy, within as few as four days, their levels can drop. So, one would expect those eating plant-based diets to have less Hashimoto’s, but in a previous video, I expressed concern about insufficient iodine intake, which could also lead to hypothyroidism. So, which is it? Let’s find out.

    “In conclusion, a vegan diet tended to be associated with lower, not higher, risk of hypothyroid disease.” Why “tended”? The associated protection against hypothyroidism incidence and prevalence studies did not reach statistical significance. It wasn’t just because they were slimmer either. The lower risk existed even after controlling for body weight. So, researchers think it might be because animal products may induce inflammation. The question I have is: If someone who already has Hashimoto’s, what happens if they change their diet? That’s exactly what I’ll explore next.

    This is the third in a four-video series on thyroid function. The first two were Are Vegans at Risk for Iodine Deficiency? and Friday Favorites: The Healthiest Natural Source of Iodine.

    Stay tuned for the final video: Diet for Hypothyroidism: A Natural Treatment for Hashimoto’s Disease. 



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  • RFK Jr Admits He ‘Did Not Fact Check’ MAHA Report Before Non-Existent Sources Were Found in the Paper

    RFK Jr Admits He ‘Did Not Fact Check’ MAHA Report Before Non-Existent Sources Were Found in the Paper

    Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. admitted that he neglected to fact check his “Make America Healthy Again” report after it was revealed that several of the over 500 sources cited by the report did not exist.

    Seven of the studies cited by the MAHA report were never published or could not be found, according to NOTUS investigation from May.

    The secretary appeared before the House Energy and Commerce Committee in a hearing on Tuesday, during which he got into a heated exchange with Democratic Rep. Raul Ruiz.

    “You’re listed as the chair of the commission. Did you read the report and fact-check its sources prior to publication?” Ruiz asked.

    “I did not fact check,” RFK Jr. responded.


    “Why then did the report include citations to sources that don’t even exist? How does that happen under your leadership, sir?” Ruiz continued.

    “All of the foundational assertions in that report are accurate,” said RFK Jr.

    “They did not exist. How can they be accurate if they did not exist? In fact, my understanding is that even once the report was updated, more authors and researchers came forward stating that their research was misconstrued. This is quite unbelievable sir,” Ruiz stated.

    “My concern here is that you and this administration are undertaking vast changes to our federal public health system and using purported facts and gold standard evidence that you claim to have as justifications for your decisions, actions and frankly your dissipation of our nation’s public health infrastructure. But what you’re relying upon isn’t real. It isn’t data driven and it isn’t based in facts or reality. It’s wrong,” Ruiz continued.

    Social media users also proceeded to ridicule RFK Jr. for his responses to Ruiz’ hard-hitting questions.

    “The Vaccine Whisperer just said he didn’t fact-check—then claimed sources that DON’T EXIST are somehow accurate?? This is what happens when a Facebook comments section is HHS. He’s not a truth-teller—he’s a conspiracy karaoke machine with a Wi-Fi signal. Unfit. Embarrassing,” one user wrote.


    “The scary part about this guy is – unlike Hegseth – nobody is babysitting him, which means he can do some serious damage. I’d be more comfortable with a witchdoctor as Sec of HHS,” another added.


    “Look, we all know RFK Jr’s brain worm fact checks everything, and that brain worm has a degree in ‘doing it’s own research’ from Trump University,” one user joked.


    “If a student turned that fraudulent document into my alma mater, they may have been referred to the university for expulsion, at the VERY least removal from the college of engineering,” another user chimed in.


    Originally published on Latin Times



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  • Florida Republican Blames ‘Fearmongering’ Left After Doctors Hesitated to Treat Her Ectopic Pregnancy Over Abortion Laws

    Florida Republican Blames ‘Fearmongering’ Left After Doctors Hesitated to Treat Her Ectopic Pregnancy Over Abortion Laws

    A Republican lawmaker in Florida blamed the “fearmongering” left after doctors hesitated to treat her life-threatening ectopic pregnancy due to the state’s strict abortion laws.

    In May 2024, the same month Florida’s 6-week abortion ban took effect, Rep. Kat Cammack learned she was experiencing an ectopic pregnancy, a condition in which a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus and cannot survive. She required an injection of methotrexate to terminate the pregnancy, but medical staff hesitated, fearing they could lose their licenses or face prison time under the new law, according to reporting by The Wall Street Journal.

    Cammack argued that her pregnancy was nonviable, that she was just five weeks along, and that her life was in danger. She even called Gov. Ron DeSantis’s office for help, but got no response. Eventually, doctors agreed to administer the drug, ultimately saving her life.

    Despite the ordeal, Cammack did not blame the law itself, instead accusing the left of scaring medical professionals by emphasizing the risk of criminal charges.

    “It was absolute fearmongering at its worst,” Cammack told The Wall Street Journal, adding that abortion-rights advocates are quick to blame Republicans for the confusion caused by what they see as vague legislation.

    “There will be some comments like, ‘Well, thank God we have abortion services,’ even though what I went through wasn’t an abortion,” Cammack said.

    Molly Duane, a senior attorney at the Center for Reproductive Rights, pushed back on Cammack’s claim, arguing that state regulators had made clear their intent to strictly enforce the abortion ban. She added that blaming medical professionals follows “the playbook of antiabortion extremists that for decades have been blaming and villainizing doctors.”

    Originally published on Latin Times

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