Talking to loved ones about substance abuse or addictions can be daunting even for the most open and loving families.
Once a person becomes addicted to a drug, it may be very difficult to quit due to painful withdrawal symptoms that lead to powerful desires to start using again. Drugs also alter a person’s state of consciousness, causing abnormal mood changes and hindering their ability to communicate.
First there was “text neck”—pain from leaning over your cell phone. Now smartphone users are reporting “text thumb.”
It’s a popular term (not an actual diagnosis) that refers to a variety of thumb problems. They can include arthritis at the base of the thumb or aggravation of previous thumb injuries.
Unfortunately, text thumb is becoming more common as we use our smartphones to read, play music, text, view social media, schedule appointments, take photos and listen to podcasts all day long.
Are you feeling overwhelmed because you have diabetes?
You aren’t alone. Many people with this metabolic disorder struggle daily to manage their blood sugar.
They say it’s a tricky balancing act. It can also be depressing and anxiety-producing.
Yet it’s critical. If your blood sugar is too high or too low, it can wear you out, making it hard to just get through the day. It can also make you feel weak and shaky.
Worse—if left untreated over time—diabetes can lead to complications like heart disease, kidney failure, blindness and limb amputations.
There has been a pushback in recent years against the prescribing of opioids, as the opioid epidemic continues to rise in the U.S.
While awareness about the risks of opioids is important, it is also crucial for patients to know that there are safe ways to take, store and dispose of the medications.
By simply learning a few guidelines before you start a prescription, you set yourself up for a successful recovery process.
