Popular medications used to treat heartburn, stomach ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may be associated with an increased risk of bacterial infections and diarrhea, according to a safety announcement released Feb. 8, 2012, by the FDA.
According to the FDA, taking proton pump inhibitors (PPI), a drug class commonly used to treat heartburn and stomach acid, may increase a patient's chance of developing Clostridium difficile- associated diarrhea (CDAD- a chronic diarrhea that may cause severe intestinal problems and in several cases, death. The FDA based its safety announcements on almost two dozen studies that found people taking PPIs were approximately 2.75 times more likely to suffer from CDAD than those not taking the medications. The FDA warning applies to both prescription and over the counter PPIs including Dexilant, Nexium, Prilosec, Prilosec OTC, Prevacid, and more. For an entire listing of brand and generic PPIs included in the warning, visit http://www.fda.gov/.
PPIs are a class of drugs used to reduce gastric acid production and are considered one of the most popular and effective class of drugs worldwide. There medications are used to treat peptic ulcers, dyspepsia (upset stomach/indigestion), GERD, and more. Common side effects of PPI use include headache, abdominal pain, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. According to the FDA, patients taking PPIs who experience persistent diarrhea should speak to with their health care provider as this may be a sign of CDAD.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Total Health Facts
Dental Office: The Front Line of Health
Pancreatic cancer causes 38,000 deaths each year.
Coronary artery disease contributes to 445,000 deaths each year.
Diabetes contributes to 230,000 deaths each year.
Oral Cancer
- Each year nearly 20 million Americans who see their dentist do Not see a physician.
- The average physician visit lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, giving patients much less time with health care providers than dentists.
- Patients should visit the dentist twice a year, at least, but often see a physician once a year or less
- Approximately 78% of the adult U.S. population has peridontal disease.
- Less than 3% of those with periodontal disease receive treatment.
- Health care costs are 21% higher for patients with severe periodontal disease than those with no periodontal disease.
- Periodontal disease is linked to the following health conditions:
Pancreatic cancer causes 38,000 deaths each year.
Coronary artery disease contributes to 445,000 deaths each year.
Diabetes contributes to 230,000 deaths each year.
Oral Cancer
- 36,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year.
- Only half the people diagnosed with oral cancer are alive in 5 years.
- One person dies every hour from oral cancer.
- When discovered in early stages, the oral cancer survival rate leaps to 80%-90%.
- When surveyed, only 15% of patients who went to the dentist reported receiving an oral cancer exam.
- More than 20 million people in the United States are infected HPV and there are approximately 6 million new cases each year.
- Studies suggest that 15%-25% of oropharyngeal cancer cases are associated with HPV16.
- 50-70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep disorders.
- Reducing sleep from 7 hours to 5 doubles the risk of cardiovascular death.
- An estimated 18 million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea.
- 80%-90% of sleep apnea suffers remain undiagnosed and untreated.
- Moderate sleep apnea increases the risk of death by 17%. Severe sleep apnea increases the risk of death by up to 46%.
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women.
- Forgetting to brush twice a day raises your risk of heart disease by 70%.
- Men and women with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without.
- Periodontal disease can exacerbate existing heart conditions.
- Diabetes contributes to approximately 230,000 deaths each year.
- 95% of Americans with diabetes have periodontal disease.
- Periodontal disease makes it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugars, which can lead to health complications.
- Not only are diabetics more likely to have periodontal disease, but periodontal patients are also more likely to develop diabetes.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
How alcohol affects teeth and the oral cavity
There are many serious consequences to imbibing to excess. Alcoholic beverages can affect the mouth and teeth in many different ways. In recent times, some of the healthful benefits of moderate alcohol consumption have been noted. Certainly, in excess alcohol has been to be detrimental to health. The detrimental effects of alcohol on the mouth can range from gum disease to oral cancer.
Drinking can lead to gum disease
Researchers at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine found a direct correlation between the amount of alcohol consumed and the severity of the risk for gum disease. With five drinks per week, the risk was 10 percent, and that rose to 40 percent for people who consumed 20 drinks per week. Gum disease can lead to more severe periodontal disease, which can very easily lead to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease and poor oral health have been shown to have a direct effect on systemic health. Periodontal pathogens have been implicated in a long list of systemic diseases, from heart disease to pancreatic cancer. While the effect of alcohol on tooth enamel isn't directly dangerous, many cocktails are mixed with sugary fruit juices or soft drinks, which have been proven to cause tooth erosion. When one drinks a sugary beverage, the sugars from the drink and the bacteria in the mouth combine to create acids. These acids then attack the tooth enamel, causing decay to resulting in cavities. Heavy drinking can also lead to frequent vomiting and the vomit is extremely acidic.
The most significant way in which drinking affects the mouth is increasing the risk of oral cancer. Evidence suggests that this is because alcohol breaks down into a substance called acetaldehyde, which can bind to proteins in the mouth. This can trigger an inflammatory response from the body. In the most severe cases, cancerous cells can develop. While oral cancer most often appears on the lips or the tongue, it can also occur on both the floor and the roof of the mouth or on the gums. This risk is significantly impacted when alcohol consumption is combined with tobacco use.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the synergy between alcohol and tobacco results in a 15 times greater risk for the development of oral cancer. Even on its own, alcohol abuse is the second largest risk factor. It's thought because alcohol dehydrates the cell walls in the mouth, carcinogens can permeate the tissue more easily, resulting in development of cancer. Oral cancer is the fasting growing disease in 18-34 year old population. Sometimes, this is the very segment of the population that drinks alcohol in excess. Oral cancer is the major cause of preventable deaths in the United States.
Habits can affect dental cavities
Heavy drinkers may experience dry mouth at night and neglect both personal and professional oral health care. They may also consume higher levels of refined carbohydrates to satisfy their "munchies." All of these might increase their risk of developing cavities. Sometimes enlargement of the parotid salivary glands (glands which secrete saliva into the mouth) may be a sign of a chronic alcohol use problem. Drinking alcohol can have both direct and indirect effects on one's oral health, which also directly affects one's systemic health. Consuming alcohol is always best in moderation.
Drinking can lead to gum disease
Researchers at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine found a direct correlation between the amount of alcohol consumed and the severity of the risk for gum disease. With five drinks per week, the risk was 10 percent, and that rose to 40 percent for people who consumed 20 drinks per week. Gum disease can lead to more severe periodontal disease, which can very easily lead to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease and poor oral health have been shown to have a direct effect on systemic health. Periodontal pathogens have been implicated in a long list of systemic diseases, from heart disease to pancreatic cancer. While the effect of alcohol on tooth enamel isn't directly dangerous, many cocktails are mixed with sugary fruit juices or soft drinks, which have been proven to cause tooth erosion. When one drinks a sugary beverage, the sugars from the drink and the bacteria in the mouth combine to create acids. These acids then attack the tooth enamel, causing decay to resulting in cavities. Heavy drinking can also lead to frequent vomiting and the vomit is extremely acidic.
The most significant way in which drinking affects the mouth is increasing the risk of oral cancer. Evidence suggests that this is because alcohol breaks down into a substance called acetaldehyde, which can bind to proteins in the mouth. This can trigger an inflammatory response from the body. In the most severe cases, cancerous cells can develop. While oral cancer most often appears on the lips or the tongue, it can also occur on both the floor and the roof of the mouth or on the gums. This risk is significantly impacted when alcohol consumption is combined with tobacco use.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the synergy between alcohol and tobacco results in a 15 times greater risk for the development of oral cancer. Even on its own, alcohol abuse is the second largest risk factor. It's thought because alcohol dehydrates the cell walls in the mouth, carcinogens can permeate the tissue more easily, resulting in development of cancer. Oral cancer is the fasting growing disease in 18-34 year old population. Sometimes, this is the very segment of the population that drinks alcohol in excess. Oral cancer is the major cause of preventable deaths in the United States.
Habits can affect dental cavities
Heavy drinkers may experience dry mouth at night and neglect both personal and professional oral health care. They may also consume higher levels of refined carbohydrates to satisfy their "munchies." All of these might increase their risk of developing cavities. Sometimes enlargement of the parotid salivary glands (glands which secrete saliva into the mouth) may be a sign of a chronic alcohol use problem. Drinking alcohol can have both direct and indirect effects on one's oral health, which also directly affects one's systemic health. Consuming alcohol is always best in moderation.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth
- Using mouthwash 3,4 or 5 times per day will cause tooth sensitivity, as some mouthwashes are acidic. A neutral pH fluoride rinse may be a solution.
- Acidic foods such as citrus fruits, juices, and tomatoes can erode protective enamel and cause sensitivity. Rinse with water or drink some milk to help neutralize afterwards.
- Gum recession exposing tooth roots which do not have enamel can transmit temperature changes to the tooth nerves more easily. Toothpaste for sensitivity, fluoride rinses or laser treatment may help.
- Cracked or broken teeth caused by chewing ice or hard candy or other hard foods can lead to irritation of the nerve tissue inside the tooth. A cracked tooth can allow bacterial entrance into the tooth causing additional pain.
- Teeth clenching or grinding can wear away enamel or cause cracked teeth leaving teeth more sensitive. A night guard or bite splint can protect teeth and prevent wear and associated sensitivity.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), disorders that result from upper-airway obstruction have been associated with excessive daytime sleepiness, hypertension (high blood pressure) coronary heart disease, cardiac arrhythmia's, nocturnal sudden death and stroke. Snoring can be a sign of upper airway obstruction. It affects people of all ages, but is most common in overweight, middle-aged and elderly adults.
OSA and snoring are caused by anatomic airway collapse and altered respiratory-control mechanisms. Contributing structural abnormalities can include, deviated septum, nasal polyps, enlarged tongue, skeletal abnormalities, enlarged tonsils, tumors or too much fatty tissue surrounding the airway (obesity).
Oral appliances have been developed as alternatives or adjacent to weight loss, sleep position changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and surgery for the treatment of upper airway obstruction. The aim of treatment with oral appliances includes improvement of snoring, OSA or both by one or more Mechanisms: mandibular (lower jaw) repositioning or tongue advancement, thus opening a collapsed airway allowing normal breathing.
Diagnosis
The presence or absence of Obstructive Sleep Apena must be determined by doing a sleep study (Polysomnography) to identify those patients at risk due to complications of sleep apnea. The severity of sleep-related respiratory problems must be established in order to make appropriate treatment decisions.
Treatment
A. Oral appliances are indicated for use in patients with primary snoring or mild OSA who do not respond or are not candidates for treatment with measures such as weight loss or sleep position change.
B. Patients with moderate to severe OSA should have an initial trial of CPAP because CPAP has been shown to be more effective in some cases, than oral appliances.
C. Oral appliances are indicated for patients with moderate to severe OSA who are intolerant of or refuse treatment with CPAP.
D. Oral appliances may aggravate temporomandibular joint disease and may cause dental misalignment and discomfort. Oral appliances should be made and fitted by a dentist who is trained and experienced in their use and treatment objectives.
Successful treatment of sleep apnea can lead to more energy during daytime hours, greater productivity and generally feeling better overall.
The following is a simple test that can help you determine if you may have sleep apnea:
American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
Self Test
The only way to be sure if you have obstructive sleep apnea is to have a sleep test. This could be done at home, from a qualified sleep physician, or in a hospital sleep center. A score of 9 or above on this test is an indication that you should see your doctor.
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale
How likely are you to dose off or fall asleep in the following situations?
Choose the most appropriate number of each situation:
0= would never doze
1= slight chance of dozing
2= moderate chance of dozing
3= high chance of dozing
Activity Score
Sitting and Reading _______
Watching TV _______
As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break _______
Lying down to rest in the afternoon when time permits _______
Sitting and talking to someone _______
Sitting quietly after lunch without alcohol _______
In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in traffic _______
Total Score _______
A score of 9 or above indicates you may having a problem with daytime sleepiness, but below 9 does not necessarily mean you don't have a problem. See your health care professional for advice if you snore, have been told that you awake gasping for breath or if you are sleepy during the day.
OSA and snoring are caused by anatomic airway collapse and altered respiratory-control mechanisms. Contributing structural abnormalities can include, deviated septum, nasal polyps, enlarged tongue, skeletal abnormalities, enlarged tonsils, tumors or too much fatty tissue surrounding the airway (obesity).
Oral appliances have been developed as alternatives or adjacent to weight loss, sleep position changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and surgery for the treatment of upper airway obstruction. The aim of treatment with oral appliances includes improvement of snoring, OSA or both by one or more Mechanisms: mandibular (lower jaw) repositioning or tongue advancement, thus opening a collapsed airway allowing normal breathing.
Diagnosis
The presence or absence of Obstructive Sleep Apena must be determined by doing a sleep study (Polysomnography) to identify those patients at risk due to complications of sleep apnea. The severity of sleep-related respiratory problems must be established in order to make appropriate treatment decisions.
Treatment
A. Oral appliances are indicated for use in patients with primary snoring or mild OSA who do not respond or are not candidates for treatment with measures such as weight loss or sleep position change.
B. Patients with moderate to severe OSA should have an initial trial of CPAP because CPAP has been shown to be more effective in some cases, than oral appliances.
C. Oral appliances are indicated for patients with moderate to severe OSA who are intolerant of or refuse treatment with CPAP.
D. Oral appliances may aggravate temporomandibular joint disease and may cause dental misalignment and discomfort. Oral appliances should be made and fitted by a dentist who is trained and experienced in their use and treatment objectives.
Successful treatment of sleep apnea can lead to more energy during daytime hours, greater productivity and generally feeling better overall.
The following is a simple test that can help you determine if you may have sleep apnea:
American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
Self Test
The only way to be sure if you have obstructive sleep apnea is to have a sleep test. This could be done at home, from a qualified sleep physician, or in a hospital sleep center. A score of 9 or above on this test is an indication that you should see your doctor.
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale
How likely are you to dose off or fall asleep in the following situations?
Choose the most appropriate number of each situation:
0= would never doze
1= slight chance of dozing
2= moderate chance of dozing
3= high chance of dozing
Activity Score
Sitting and Reading _______
Watching TV _______
As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break _______
Lying down to rest in the afternoon when time permits _______
Sitting and talking to someone _______
Sitting quietly after lunch without alcohol _______
In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in traffic _______
Total Score _______
A score of 9 or above indicates you may having a problem with daytime sleepiness, but below 9 does not necessarily mean you don't have a problem. See your health care professional for advice if you snore, have been told that you awake gasping for breath or if you are sleepy during the day.
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