Our readers inspire us to continue our research into clinical subjects that aim to guide the public toward achieving a healthy lifestyle and longevity in their natural course. Here are some of the dozens of email queries we received each month from our readers.
Is the GLP-1 drug for everyone?
The wonder drugs, GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide 1), that recently catapulted to global popularity as very effective for Diabetes T2 and management of obesity (and more!), are a life-saver, but they are not for everyone. They appear also to reduce the risk for heart failure, fatty liver, kidney disease, and dementia. It has potential complications that could be serious for some individuals. GLP-1 injections (now available in pills) require a prescription from a licensed physician.
Does diabetes cause blindness?
Most definitely, especially among persons whose diabetes is untreated, poorly treated, or simply brittle and hard to treat. The blindness is due to what is termed diabetic retinopathy. A significant number of cases of blindness in the world today are caused by diabetes. Once the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is confirmed, prompt and appropriate therapy should be instituted. The diabetic should be disciplined enough to religiously follow the prescribed medical regimen if the complications of the disease, like blindness, leg gangrene, etc., are to be prevented.
Can trauma to the breasts cause cancer?
Repeated trauma to the breast has been implicated as a possible etiology in the formation of cancer of the breast among women. This could be in the form of biting, pinching, squeezing, or rough manual manipulation. The breasts, like the person, must be treated with care and tenderness.
Do cellphone radiation shields work?
No, the so-called “radiation shields” for cell phones do not work, and therefore are not effective in protecting the user from radiation, reports the FTC in the United States. If anything at all, this shield “lulls” the user to complacency, and thus the user is subjected to a more prolonged radiation exposure because of the false sense of security the unsuspecting consumers will have. While the association between cell phone use and some type of brain tumors is still unclear, it is best to avoid and minimize any type of radiation exposure from any source. To reduce radiation exposure from cell phones, we recommend the use of one of the hands-free (Bluetooth) devices now commercially available.
What causes palpitation?
Palpitation (pounding heartbeat, harder and faster than normal) could be due to extrinsic causes like ingestion of a stimulant (coffee, tea, cola drinks, chocolates, some medications, etc.) and/or cigarette smoking, or due to intrinsic causes like coronary or heart valve diseases. The person feels the heart thumping in the chest, which could lead to some degree of discomfort and anxiety. When this happens regularly, despite abstinence from the extrinsic causes listed above, prompt medical consultation is recommended.
Are body moisturizing lotions safe?
Yes, in general, hand and body lotions in the market are safe. The frequent (two or more times a day) use of hand and body lotion is recommended because our skin needs moisture to keep it comfortable, healthy, and as young-looking as possible, for both women and men. Caution: Some people may be allergic to some of these commercially available skin moisturizers.
Can hydrogen peroxide be used for gargling?
Yes, hydrogen peroxide could be used for gargling, but ask your dentist first since he/she knows your dental condition better and can advise you accordingly. Hydrogen peroxide, together with other common ingredients (like triclosan) in tooth pastes, helps prevent tooth decay, gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), tartar and plaque formation, and halitosis (bad breath). Hydrogen peroxide is a substance that is incorporated in many toothpaste preparations in the market today. Baking soda is another. The anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis toothpastes are not recommended for children.
Do skin whiteners work?
There are a few popular preparations of skin (“bleach”) whitener available in the market today, which are effective and safe. They are not cheap. One well-known brand costs about One Thousand Pesos for 2 ounces. The basic ingredient is 4% hydroquinone. The original use of it was to make skin blemishes (chloasma, melasma, freckles, senile lentigines, and other areas of melanin hyperpigmentation) disappear, but today cosmetologists, many dermatologists, and some plastic surgeons recommend it for the entire face as a “bleaching agent” to whiten the complexion. Those using this should stay away from sunlight to prevent skin burns. One substance, whose side-effect is making the skin lighter and whiter, is glutathione. Before applying skin whitener, one must consult with his/her physician first because of potential allergy, side effects, and possible complications of these items.
Can skin ointment be used for the eyes?
No, most definitely no. Skin lotions, creams, gel, ointments, and solutions are for topical (external or skin) application only, and are not safe for the eyes. There are specific drops and ointments for the eyes. Never use any other preparation, except those prescribed by healthcare professionals specifically for the eyes, which are always labeled “Ophthalmic” or “For ophthalmic use.”
Does surgery make cancer spread?
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, distinguished educators, renowned scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com On Amazon.com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
