Medical Mailbox
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Tips for Kids with Asthma
Falling temperatures, moldy leaves, and dusty costumes can scare the fun right out of Halloween for kids with asthma—and their parents. Here’s a bag of tricks to protect your favorite little goblins, from asthma and allergy expert David Wilson, M.D.
Optical Options for Getting Rid of Glasses
Want clear, trouble-free vision but been turned down for LASIK? Don’t despair. Francis Price, M.D., says implanted contact lenses or PRK laser surgery may be right for you.
Fast-Track Research on Conquering Chronic Fatigue
Suzanne Vernon, Ph.D., discusses the latest developments in battling chronic fatigue syndrome in this web-exclusive interview.
Treating Peripheral Neuropathy with Metanx
Metanx, a prescription-strength combination of B vitamins, can be used to treat peripheral neuropathy. Share your experiences with the treatment here!
Safeguard Your Medical Information
Here’s exclusive web information from Bonnie Cassidy, president of the American Health Information Management Association, about protecting your personal medical information—whether it’s stored electronically or on paper.
Crooked Finger?
The little finger on my left hand kinks up into a hook. Is this problem caused by arthritis? I can hardly tie my shoes. Please advise.
Call First, Act Later
One of the most rewarding parts of my work as a
pharmacist is answering questions people have about their medicines. It is also one of my most frustrating jobs, especially when people call with a question about a medication that they have already taken. At that point, I’m unable to help them avoid potential drug [...]
Be Careful with Coumadin
Warfarin (Coumadin), a prescription drug used to
prevent blood clots, saves countless lives. However, many drugs and supplements (even common pain
medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen) can intensify its anti-clotting effect and put patients at risk of excessive bleeding. When Coumadin therapy is indicated, give your doctor—and your pharmacist—a comprehensive list of your prescription drugs, [...]
Lingering GI Tract Infection
Unfortunately, I contracted a C. difficile bacterial infection of the intestine after one night in a hospital. I came close to dying and after a long recovery still feel as though I’m not totally free of it. What do studies show about residual infection, and is any information available on its treatment?
Medical Mailbox supplements the advice of your health care provider,
whom you should consult for personal medical problems.
whom you should consult for personal medical problems.















