Health News

Alzheimer’s Drug Does not Relieve Agitation
A new study shows that Namenda ( memantine ), used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), does not improve agitation symptoms. As AD progresses, agitation is a common symptom that often appears as restlessness, anxiousness, or becoming easily upset. A recent study looked at this aspect, specifically, and found that Namenda did not appear to offer any benefit to these symptoms. Talk with a doctor if a loved one with AD experiences agitation The study, led by Chris Fox, MD, of the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom, enrolled 149 patients with AD who also ...
Onset Age of Alzheimer’s may Predict Symptoms
Alzheimer’s disease is typically divided into two categories: early onset and late onset. New research shows that the specific types of deficits experienced may be related to the type or onset age of the disorder.
Spotting Spinal Arthritis Early
Ankylosing spondylitis is not the most common cause of back pain. As such, it might be over-the-top to screen every back pain patient for ankylosing spondylitis . So, how can doctors more easily spot those with the disease?
Nuts May Help Your Noggin
Have an extra slice of salmon each week, or add some almonds to your weekly snacks - it may help keep your mind clearer for longer as you get on in years. A recent study has found a link between eating foods with omega-3 fatty acids and lower levels of a protein that's related to Alzheimer's disease. Foods like fish, nuts and chicken are sources of omega-3s . Regularly eat foods with omega-3 fatty acids, like chicken and nuts. lead author Nikolaos Scarmeas , MD, of Columbia University Medical Center in New York, and colleagues set out to find connections between specific nutrie...
Brain Stimulation May Prevent Migraines
Not all patients with chronic migraines are aided with over the counter or prescription medication. For some, another option may be mild non-invasive brain stimulation.
Arthritis Anxiety
Arthritis affects an estimated 50 million people in the United States alone. Physical joint pain may not be the only negative effect, psychological disorders may accompany arthritis as well.
The Epilepsy Wristband
Epilepsy affects approximately 50 million people worldwide. Patients sometimes have to stay in a hospital for days in order for doctors to monitor their condition. But a new wristband may make it easier.
Menopause Linked to Osteoporosis
It's well known that osteoporosis is most common among post-menopausal women. A new study finds that women who start menopause early are at greater risk for fracture than most women. In fact, women who go through menopause before they turn 48 are twice as likely to develop osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones and leads to fractures. The average age for menopause to start is 51. If you have premature menopause, get screened for osteoporosis. The study was conducted by Swedish researchers and published in BJOG : An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology . ...
Mad-Cow Case Found in California
A case of mad-cow disease has been located in a cow in California, but the USDA has announced that the discovery poses no risk to human health or the food supply.
Botox Little Help for Migraines
Botox -- perhaps best known for fighting wrinkles associated with aging -- also is approved as a treatment for chronic migraines, though studies evaluating its effectiveness as a headache reliever have been mixed.