Introduction Today is World AIDS day. This isn’t 1983. The mystery of how HIV infection is contracted has come and gone. Be knowledgable to be empowered. This is the first blog in an ongoing series on HIV and AIDS. For an explanation of what AIDS is, click here. For an explanation of the signs and symptoms … Continue reading World AIDS Day
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Introduction A spinal tap (lumbar puncture) induces a lot of angst. Although the reason for the procedure should, the procedure itself really shouldn’t. What is a spinal tap? A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is performed to obtain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF – the naturally occurring fluid that bathes the spinal cord) from the spinal column. It … Continue reading What is a spinal tap, and why is it done?
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Introduction Decisions about your final days need to include end of life planning. Now that you’ve had a chance to wrap your mind around the concept of needing to make end of life decisions (review this previous post if you missed that blog), let’s discuss some specific mechanisms by which you can ensure your wishes … Continue reading How To Complete End of Life Planning
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Introduction This Straight, No Chaser post addresses considerations related to end of life decision making. Having this conversation when death is staring you or a loved one in the face is not the most ideal situation. Do you have a living will? Do you know what advance directives are? Have you assigned a healthcare power of … Continue reading End of Life Decision Making
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Introduction This point highlights patient rights and responsibilities. Even if you didn’t know it, you have rights as a patient. In 1998, the U.S. Advisory Commission on Consumer Protection and Quality in the Health Care Industry adopted a Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities. This is summarized in this Straight, No Chaser post. These rights apply universally … Continue reading Patient Rights and Responsibilities
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Introduction This post addresses preventing and treating urinary tract infections. At some point, you’ve got to be on board with the notion that you need to prevent some of the things that ail you. All men who have UTIs are at higher risk for having another one. About one of every five women who have … Continue reading Preventing and Treating Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
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Introduction Ladies, have you ever been told that you get urinary tract infections (aka UTIs or “bladder infections”) because you didn’t wipe front to back instead of back to front? Men, have you ever been told that this could be a sign that your prostate needs to be examined This Straight, No Chaser answers simple questions on … Continue reading Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
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Introduction This post addresses your question on drug-induced kidney damage. Drug-Induced Kidney Damage Each kidney filters about 1700 liters of blood per day and concentrates fluid and waste products into about one liter of urine per day. Because of this, the kidneys receive more exposure to toxic substances in the body than almost any other … Continue reading Does drug use cause kidney damage?
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Introduction If you’re shopping today, don’t you want to make sure you’re buying safe toys? At Straight, No Chaser, we review the literature and give you the goods. While you’re out and about shopping for toys, print out this list to help you select safe toys, then post it in your home to be reminded of … Continue reading Tips on Buying Safe Toys and Gifts
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Introduction Want to increase your life expectancy and live better longer? You may want to keep this post. I haven’t exactly found the Fountain of Youth, but I do know what activities lead to a longer life expectancy. In honor of Thanksgiving, and in the spirit of being thankful for life, here are 25 tips … Continue reading 25 Tips That WILL Increase Your Life Expectancy
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