Daily Column
Anesthesia allergies are common
May 23, 2013 By Dr. Gott
Q: Just recently I learned that my mother probably had a type of allergic reaction to an anesthetic. At the time of her hernia surgery in the mid 60s, the doctors said they didn't know why she nearly died or what was causing the extremely high temperatures every day, resulting in her being packed in ice. Somehow, after three months, she survived. Eighteen years later another doctor wanted to perform another surgery which was somewhat elective and I mentioned that as we didn't know what had happened earlier, I didn't think we should chance it. The doctor said “she had an allergic reaction to the anesthetic, it's in her chart”. Just a couple of weeks ago I found this type of reaction is genetic and testing for it is inclusive. The lack of full disclosure by these doctors (or … [Read More...]
Monthly Awareness
May Monthly Awareness – Arthritis
May 10, 2013 By Dr. Gott
Arthritis affects more than 46 million Americans, a figure that may rise to an astonishing 67 million or more people by the year 2030. While there are more than 100 types of arthritis, the two most common forms are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), described as inflammation of one or more joints in the body. The many types have several common characteristics such as symptoms of pain and stiffness that may be relieved with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, comes on slowly from normal wear and tear as an individual ages, or may occur more rapidly because of injury or infection. Healthy cartilage is smooth, flexible, and allows for easy movement of joints; however, when OA begins, the surface of that … [Read More...]
