Articles tagged with Pain
A study of 150 children and adults found that African-American, East African, Hispanic, and Native American subjects were nearly entirely vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with significant risks for osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and multiple sclerosis.
Esophageal manometry is a diagnostic tool that helps identify esophageal diseases like gastroesophageal reflux disease, heartburn, and swallowing problems. The new guidelines provide a standardized approach to performing the test, improving data sharing and interpretation among physicians.
Despite improvements in reported pain after surgery, patients continue to express concerns about anaesthesia, including fear of not waking up or experiencing nausea and vomiting. The authors note that developments in technology and training have improved anaesthetic practice, but challenges remain to improve patient comfort.
Researchers found that platelets in heart disease patients clot more easily despite taking aspirin, increasing the risk of heart attack. Further studies will investigate additional anti-clotting agents and genetic factors affecting platelet function.
Researchers found that men's brains showed greater activity in cognitive regions when given pain stimuli, while women's brains responded more strongly in limbic regions. These differences may have evolved due to distinct roles of men and women in stress responses, with women's brains being more nurturing and protective.
A new study investigates women's experience with heart attacks, revealing a wide range of symptoms that can indicate the disease. The research aims to improve early detection and prevent cardiac events in women.
Researchers found that unusual fatigue was the most common early symptom reported by women before their heart attacks, with 70% of cases. The study's lead author emphasizes the importance of educating women about new symptoms and seeking medical care to determine their cause, especially those with known cardiovascular risks.
A new study highlights the need for improved care of vulnerable older adults with conditions such as bedsores and incontinence. Leech therapy shows promise in relieving pain from osteoarthritis, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.
Researchers found that social exclusion activates the same part of the brain as physical pain, leading to elevated activity in the anterior cingulate cortex. The study's authors theorize that this automatic response evolved to protect human survival and well-being.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that listening to calming music during early active labor can significantly reduce the sensation and distress of pain. The study, led by Sasitorn Phumdoung, suggests that music may be a widely-used alternative to medication for easing pain during childbirth.
Researchers discovered that 'hot pepper' receptors on the heart trigger symptoms of heart attack and may lead to new treatments for angina pectoris. The study found that these receptors cause blood vessels to constrict and increase blood pressure, leading to chest pain.
Researchers found that hypnosis did not provide better pain relief compared to non-hypnotic treatments. The amount of pain relief experienced was largely due to participants' expectations from the therapy, according to the study's lead author.
Researchers used MRI to assess brain function while participants experienced heat stimuli. People who reported higher pain levels showed increased activation in key brain areas, such as the primary somatosensory cortex and anterior cingulate cortex. This confirms the importance of self-reports in guiding pain treatment.
A new blood test can detect heart attacks in just five minutes with a 99% accuracy rate, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The test identifies two proteins associated with the earliest stages of a heart attack, reducing unnecessary hospital stays.
The UK is experiencing an increased rate of gonorrhoea infection due to growing antibiotic resistance, particularly with ciprofloxacin. The Health Protection Agency recommends reviewing national and local treatment guidelines to ensure effective treatment using alternative antibiotics such as cephalosporins or spectinomycin.
Radiofrequency ablation has shown promising results in treating advanced lung cancer, with significant pain reduction and improved survival rates. The procedure involves using extreme heat to destroy or slow the growth of tumors, and can be used as an alternative to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a nerve cell receptor as necessary for initiating inflammatory bowel disease. The study suggests that blocking the VR-1 receptor could halt the development of IBD in an animal model.
A University of Toronto study estimates that pain pump programming errors could result in up to 667 deaths, with reporting rates ranging from 1.2% to 7.7%. The researchers recommend redesigning the control panel using human factors engineering techniques to reduce human error.
A new study published in The Lancet has found that laparoscopic adhesiolysis does not provide substantial pain relief or improvement in quality of life for patients with adhesions and chronic abdominal pain. The study recommends abandoning this procedure as a treatment option.
A study of 81 undergraduates found that males exhibit higher pain thresholds and tolerances than females. The researchers also discovered that psychological factors can influence the association between physiological responses and pain responses, and additional research is needed to replicate these findings.
The CT1 is a small, wireless device providing pain relief with minimal side effects. It can be used for various conditions such as arthritis, minor cuts, and surgical procedures.
A study published in Diabetes Care found that alpha lipoic acid significantly improved symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, including a 5.7-point total symptom score improvement. The treatment had no unfavorable side effects and may be a promising lead for future research into the cause and prevention of diabetic neuropathy.
A new study by McGill University found that redheaded women respond better to a painkilling drug due to a genetic variation in the Mc1r gene. This gene is associated with pigmentation and variants cause red hair and fair skin, leading to a heightened response to kappa-specific analgesics.
A new study finds Keppra alleviates severe nerve pain in cancer patients by reducing VAS scores to 0-3 within 3-14 days, with a significant decrease in opioid use. The medication was well-tolerated and showed potential therapeutic benefits for further investigation.
A Mayo Clinic study found that total hip replacement surgery can significantly improve the quality of life for patients over 90 years old. The study, which reviewed medical records from 1970 to 1997, showed that patients experienced substantial relief of pain and functional improvement after surgery.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital found that providing extra nitric oxide through inhalation may reverse or stop vaso-occlusive crisis symptoms. The treatment reduced pain scores and morphine use in patients with severe sickle cell disease, warranting further investigation.
Researchers found that specific genetic variants, such as the val158met polymorphism in the COMT gene, influence an individual's sensitivity to pain. This genetic variation affects brain regions involved in pain perception and emotional regulation, leading to increased pain ratings and a more negative internal state.
A new study from UT Southwestern Medical Center has established criteria for safely treating patients with cocaine-associated chest pain. The study found that patients who did not show evidence of heart-muscle damage or cardiovascular complications during a 12-hour observation period had a low risk of death or other problems in the 30 ...
A study of 61 patients with HIV-related peripheral neuropathy found that psychotherapy reduced pain intensity and improved daily life functions. However, high dropout rates and short attendance periods made it challenging to assess the treatment's effectiveness.
Researchers found depression before surgery significantly increased hospitalization for cardiac reasons six months post-operative, with patients experiencing prolonged surgical pain and failure to return to normal activities. Depression also persisted post-surgery, often unrecognized and untreated.
A study examining ambulance transport data in Toronto found that diversion can cause important delays for critically ill patients. The researchers used data from 3609 patients with chest pain in 1997 and 1999 to show a 28.4% increase in transport intervals during periods of high overcrowding.
HIV patients who use self-distraction techniques or drugs to cope with stress report reduced energy levels and social activity limitations. Pain affects daily activities, work performance, and school performance.
Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) who undergo supervised exercise programs experience improvements in blood flow, reduced systemic inflammation, and enhanced cardiovascular health. By walking on a treadmill several times a week, PAD patients can eventually reduce their leg pain and increase their walking distance.
Researchers have solved the structure of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), an enzyme that metabolizes endocannabinoids like anandamide, which provide natural pain relief. By inhibiting FAAH, scientists aim to increase the longevity of these molecules, potentially leading to effective and long-lasting pain relief without side effects.
A new test protocol has been shown to accurately diagnose chest pain in emergency patients, with a 100% sensitivity rating for heart attacks. The protocol's accelerated evaluation tool may reduce hospital admissions and improve patient outcomes by enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment.
A study on atorvastatin found patients experienced quality of life improvements, but primary endpoints were not met. Peripheral arterial disease affects millions worldwide, causing leg pain and reduced blood supply.
A study of 610 participants found that wearing an ionized bracelet for 28 days did not provide significant pain relief compared to a placebo. The researchers conclude that the equivalent improvement in pain scores may call into question the true benefit of using such bracelets.
A recent study found that depression one month after coronary artery bypass surgery is a significant risk factor for continued cardiac problems. The research suggests that evaluating patients for depression after surgery and providing treatment may enhance long-term outcomes.
Patients receiving enzyme replacement therapy for a near-two-year period show improved pain levels and reduced organ damage. The treatment continues to be effective despite the presence of antibodies in some patients.
A study by Shinya Ugawa and colleagues found that acid sensing ion channels (ASICs) function as acid sensors within a specific pH range, while VR1 receptors are not involved. The ASICs inhibitor amiloride may be a useful analgesic for treating localized pain within this range.
The Mayo Clinic study shows RF ablation can effectively kill cancer cells causing bone pain, with 95% of patients experiencing significant pain relief. The procedure takes 30-60 minutes and alleviates pain by killing nerve endings and cancer tissue.
A recent survey of 968 women aged 15-59 found that nearly 60% were told their pain is normal by their Ob/Gyn or a friend/family member. Chronic pelvic pain affects many lives, but often takes years to receive an accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Berger's lab will expand its studies of idiopathic prostatitis and explore potential solutions using Botox and genetic stress factors. The grant will help develop a working model explaining the disease's puzzling manifestations.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that the activation of p38 increases TRPV1 protein in skin, leading to pain hypersensitivity. The findings may open up new options for pain management through the use of inhibitors to block this process.
Dr. Rory Cooper's groundbreaking work on wheelchair design and technology has improved the lives of veterans with service-connected disabilities. His contributions include streamlined wheelchairs, accessibility guidelines, and electric-powered wheelchair expansion.
A new study found that the increased pain following exercise in osteoarthritis patients is short-lived, typically subsiding by evening. This insight can help patients cope with temporary increases in pain and stick to exercise programs for long-term benefits.
Researchers found that indomethacin reduced postoperative tumor growth by up to 63% in female and male rats. The study suggests controlling pain and inflammation may be crucial in managing cancer patients undergoing surgery.
Researchers found no difference in cosmetic appearance between sutured and non-sutured hand cuts after three months. Patients treated conservatively reported less pain and shorter treatment times compared to those who received sutures.
A panel of experts calls for improved symptom management for cancer patients, citing undertreatment of pain, depression, and fatigue. The panel emphasizes the need for evidence-based treatments and routine assessment tools to ensure optimal symptom control.
Researchers at McGill University are studying sex-associated pain in women, focusing on the issue of pain itself rather than its physical or psychological causes. They recommend a combination of cognitive behavioral pain management and physical therapy for relief.
A recent study found that patients undergoing arthroscopic lavage or debridement for osteoarthritis of the knee did not experience greater pain relief or improved function compared to those receiving placebo surgery. The researchers suggest that the same therapeutic benefits may be achieved through non-invasive treatment methods.
A new study found that the continuous stitching technique significantly reduced pain in women with perineal damage after childbirth. The method also resulted in fewer suture removals within three months compared to interrupted suturing. This could lead to cost savings and improved outcomes for patients.
A phase II trial demonstrated the therapeutic benefit of an angiogenic growth factor in patients with painful blockages in the legs. Treated patients showed significant increases in peak walking times and improved scores in a blood pressure index, suggesting improved perfusion.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Investigator Awards program funds research initiatives addressing cultural influences on pain management, the right to healthcare, and the impact of regulation on human subjects. The newly funded projects will provide fresh insights to inform health policy.
Dr. Robin Cohen developed the McGill Quality of Life (MQOL) Questionnaire to measure existential, physical, psychological, and social well-being in terminally ill patients. She emphasizes the importance of addressing cognition, emotion, and spiritual aspects of pain management.
Dr. Johnston's research focuses on reducing infant pain in preterm babies, finding skin-to-skin contact and sugar administration can be effective soothing methods. She also coaches pediatric nurses and promotes a pain awareness campaign to improve treatment options for infants and their families.
Dr. James Henry studies the electrical activity of nerve cells to understand how pain is transmitted to the brain. He hopes to establish collaborations among pain researchers and medical professionals to improve treatment options for patients suffering from chronic pain.
Researchers found that chili peppers suppress sweetness, bitterness, and umami flavors, while leaving saltiness and sourness unaffected. Adding chili could be used to balance bitter flavors in foods.
A recent study by Ohio State University found that the DentiPatch, a small adhesive patch containing lidocaine, delivers longer and deeper relief from dental pain. The patch's anesthetic effects last up to 45 minutes, whereas traditional gel-based treatments only last about a minute.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a novel imaging technique to detect tiny tumors that cause a rare bone disorder. The method, which uses radioactive pentetreotide to identify tumor locations, has correctly pinpointed tumors in five of seven patients with oncogenic osteomalacia.