Life After Hepatitis C: It's No Longer a 'Death Sentence'

While hepatitis C may have been a death sentence a generation ago, a potential cure is already giving some patients a new lease on life.

Vicki Martinez knows the destructive capabilities of hepatitis C firsthand.
The 57-year-old San Antonian found out she was infected with the virus after a blood test three years ago, but she never showed any symptoms.
“It floored me because my mother passed away from hepatitis C,” she said. “I saw the ugly side of what hepatitis can do.”
Her mother likely contracted hepatitis during a series of blood transfusions 20 years ago, long before it was routinely tested for in blood and organ donors. Because hepatitis C rarely presents any symptoms until it begins to destroy the liver, Martinez’s mother was for a long time unaware of the infection. She was given six months to live after it was discovered.
Until this year, Martinez was one of the estimated 3.2 million Americans living with hepatitis C. The virus kills more people every year than HIV. And like so many others, she wasn’t aware of her infection until her doctors discovered something wrong during a routine blood test.
Happily, Martinez has since been cured. On June 28—the day before her 57th birthday—Martinez was told she had been cured by a new drug regimen hailed as the first to successfully eliminate a viral disease.
“I didn’t know there were cures for hepatitis C,” Martinez said. “It was incredible, considering what my mom went through. It was a death sentence.”

New Cures Expected Soon

Martinez was part of a clinical trial for the drug sofosbuvir, a new treatment from Gilead Sciences that is expected to receive approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) soon.

A recent phase II study found that a combination of sofosbuvir and simeprevir cleared the virus in 90 percent of the 197 patients with hepatitis C who were tested.
Martinez and other patients in the study had not responded to interferon, the injection-based current standard of treatment. Interferon can cause severe unwanted side effects, including depression, nausea, and lethargy.
Other new drug candidates, including simeprevir from Johnson & Johnson, and daclatasvir and asunaprevir from Bristol-Myers Squibb, can also allegedly cure 80 to 90 percent of patients through 12 weeks of treatment.

On the Verge of a ‘Revolution’

Dr. Kris Kowdley, director of the Liver Center of Excellence and the Digestive Disease Institute at Seattle’s Virginia Mason Medical Center, said these emerging therapies could break the “backbone of interferon” currently used to treat the disease.
In the 1990s, drugs on the market were only able to help 10 percent of all hepatitis patients, at most. In 2002, the rate was 40 percent. Within a year, Kowdley said, hepatitis patients may be treated and cured using an all-oral drug regimen more quickly and with fewer side effects.
“There’s literally a revolution occurring right now in the world of hepatitis C,” he said. “The response rates have improved drastically.”
Kowdley said that with new, highly effective treatments, a vaccine for hepatitis C may not be necessary.
“We do have the capabilities within our grasp to completely eliminate this virus from the planet,” he said.

Good Reasons to Get Screened

Martinez recommends that everyone get tested for hepatitis C.

“Care about yourself,” she said. “You’re worth it.”
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommend that all baby boomers undergo a one-time hepatitis screening, because the majority of new diagnoses are in patients born between 1945 and 1965.
“We grew up in a different age. In the 60s and 70s, things were easier and more carefree, especially sexually,” Martinez said. “It’s not something to be ashamed of.”
Kowdley said a lack of symptoms shouldn’t prevent people from getting tested for the virus. “People should feel empowered to request testing,” he said.
Now that Martinez's children are grown and she isn’t carrying deadly virus that ended her mother’s life, she’s embracing her situation. She takes regular trips with her girlfriends and better care of herself.
“I’ve got a new attitude,” she said. “I’m doing more things to make me happy.”

 

What Do You Want to Know About Heart Disease?

Healthline → Heart Disease → HomeAd by SalePlus | CloseAd by SalePlus | CloseWhat Do You Want to Know About Heart Disease?Written by Robin Donovan and Kristeen CherneyMedically Reviewed on July 17, 2015 by Healthline Medical TeamHeart disease (also known as cardiovascular disease) is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This broad term encompasses a wide range of cardiovascular problems, including:coronary artery diseaseheart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmia)hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)heart infectionscongenital heart defectsHeart attacks, strokes, and other complications can arise when blood vessels become blocked or narrowed. While heart disease can be deadly, it’s also preventable in most people. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits early, you can potentially live longer with a healthier heart.What Are Some Risk Factors for Heart Disease?There are many risk factors for heart disease, some are preventable and others are not. The CDC says that 49 percent of Americans have at least one risk factor. Some of these include:high blood pressure (hypertension)high cholesterol (and low HDL levels)smokingobesityphysical inactivitySmoking, for example, is a preventable risk factor. People who smoke double their risk of developing heart disease, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse.Those with diabetes may also be at higher risk for heart disease because high blood glucose levels increase the risk of:chest pain (angina)heart attackstrokecoronary artery diseaseIf you have diabetes, it’s essential to control your glucose to limit your risk for developing heart disease. The American Heart Association reports heart disease is the most common cause of disability in people with type 2 diabetes.Family history, ethnicity, sex, and age are other risk factors. These risk factors are not preventable. Family history, according to the Mayo Clinic, is defined as a family member that developed heart disease:under 55 years of age for men (especially a father or brother)under 65 for women (mother and sister)Ethnicity is also a factor. Asian and African ancestry groups are at increased risk for heart disease than other groups. Also, men are at greater risk for heart disease than woman.Finally, your age can increase your risk for stroke. According to the World Heart Federation, after age 55 your risk for stroke doubles each decade.How Can I Prevent Heart Disease?As mentioned previously, some risk factors for heart disease can’t be prevented — your family history, for example. But it’s still important to lower your chance of developing heart disease by decreasing the risk factors that you can control.Having healthy blood pressure and cholesterol ranges are some of the first steps you should take for a healthy heart. A healthy blood pressure is considered less than 120 systolic and 80 diastolic (often expressed as “120 over 80” or “120/80 mm Hg”). Systolic is the measurement of pressure while the heart is contracting. Diastolic is the measurement when the heart is resting. Higher numbers indicate that the heart is working too hard to pump blood.Your goal for cholesterol readings will depend on your risk factors and heart health history. If you’re at a high risk of heart disease, have diabetes, or have already had a heart attack, your target levels will be below those recommended for people with low or average risk.As simple as it sounds, managing stress can also lower your risk. Don’t underestimate chronic stress as a contributor to heart disease. Speak with doctor if you’re frequently overwhelmed, anxious, or are coping with stressful life events, such as moving, changing jobs, or going through a divorce.Eating healthy and exercising regularly are also important. Make sure to avoid foods high in saturated fat and salt. The Mayo Clinic recommends 30 to 60 minutes of exercise on most days. Check with your doctor to make sure you can safely meet these guidelines — especially if you already have a heart condition.If you smoke, stop. The nicotine in cigarettes causes blood vessels to constrict, making it harder for oxygenated blood to circulate, which can lead to atherosclerosis.Keep Reading: 28 Healthy Heart Tips »What Can I Do After Receiving a Heart Disease Diagnosis?If you’ve recently been diagnosed with heart disease, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to stay as healthy as possible. You can prepare for your appointment by creating a detailed list of your everyday habits. Possible topics include:medications you takeyour regular exercise routineyour typical dietany family history of heart disease or strokepersonal history of high blood pressure or diabetesany symptoms you’re experiencing (such as racing heart, dizziness, or lack of energy)Seeing your doctor regularly is just one lifestyle habit you can take on. This way, any potential issues can be caught as early as possible. Certain risk factors, such as high blood pressure, may be treated with medications to lower your risk of heart disease.Your doctor may also provide tips for:quitting smokingcontrolling blood pressureexercising regularlymaintaining healthy cholesterol levelslosing weighteating healthilyTackling these changes all at once might not be possible. Discuss with your healthcare provider which lifestyle changes will have the biggest impact. Even small steps toward these goals will help keep you at your healthiest.Read More: When to Talk to Your Doctor About Heart Disease »Is There a Cure for Heart Disease?Heart disease can’t be cured or reversed. It requires a lifetime of treatment and careful monitoring. Many of the symptoms of heart disease can be relieved with medications, procedures, and lifestyle changes. When these methods fail, coronary intervention or bypass surgery might be used. Still, there is no way to reverse the damage to your arteries. It’s important to take charge of your overall health now.

Young Breast Cancer Patients Avoiding Tamoxifen Because of Fertility Concerns

Young Breast Cancer Patients Avoiding Tamoxifen Because of Fertility Concerns

Young women may be skipping breast cancer treatments to preserve fertility. Researchers say the issue is under-discussed and oncologists and OB-GYNs need to work together.

 “You didn’t want children, did you?” 

Add your  comment or question below. Or send your question to this email sammyraskid@gmail.com

 

Men's Health and Possibly TMI on Diabetes and Sex

Got questions about life with diabetes? So do we! That's why we offer our weekly diabetes advice column, Ask D'Mine, hosted by veteran type 1, diabetes author and community educator Wil Dubois.
This week, Wil takes on a sensitive question from a woman overseas who's asking on behalf of her husband with type 1 diabetes. The issue is what goes on in the bedroom, and how diabetes can play a part...
It's a real concern for many men, women and couples in our D-Community. Wil has some insight to share on this very touchy topic.
First Rule of Chronic Illness: never consult with Dr. Google. I can’t even count how many times I’ve scared the crap out of myself by Googling symptoms. OMG, my symptoms are an exact match! I have the nearly always-fatal Tasmanian Swamp Disease. Oh… Wait… It might be the always-fatal Bulgarian Mountain Sickness. Or maybe just a harmless, but annoying, case of Eastern Somali Ringworm. And that’s just the top three hits. There are 75 million more.
But seriously, Lani, I don’t think your guy needs any sort of medical doctor. I think he needs a marriage counselor.
Oh, and BTW dear readers, I wrote back to Lani and assured her there’s no such thing as TMI (Too Much Information) in my biz, and learned a few other pertinent facts that help illuminate today’s case study. Lani’s T1 was Dx’d at age 8, with typical control until the “screw-it” teen years when he had 2-3 bad episodes that landed him in the hospital. At age 19 his main squeeze Lani, our Down Under correspondent in this case, “fell pregnant.”
I love the way Aussies talk.
At this point, as a 19-year-old father, he cleaned up his diabetes management act. Lani tells me in the five years they’ve been together, he’s not had one trip to the hospital. She also reports—because I asked—that the sex “was fine” pre-baby, but “died off pretty significantly after our first.”  They now have a second child, as well. She says that sex over the last two years has been “very rare,” but that when it happens he’s never had any issues with getting and holding an erection. And lastly, she does concede that “stress management is not his talent.” 
So why am I so quick to rule out a biological cause the young Mate’s problem?
The Zebra Principle -- it's real, look it up. You can even ask Dr. Google.
Sorry about switching continents on you, but the Zebra Principle is a medical diagnostic theory that is summed up by saying that if you are walking through the woods in Wisconsin and hear hoof beats, it’s probably not a Zebra. Sure, it could be -- one might have escaped from the zoo. And Dr. Google would likely put that possibility higher up the food chain that it ought to be, but it’s just not too likely, given that zebras are not native to this region.
And in medicine you’re not too likely to get Tasmanian Swamp Disease unless you are in Tasmania, have visited Tasmania, or just fell pregnant by someone who is from Tasmania. Oh, and before you go check with Dr. Google, I totally made up Tasmanian Swamp Disease. But the long and the short of it is, the most likely cause is almost always the case. And just like hoof beats Down Under are unlikely to be zebras, so too are biological causes of this young man’s failed erection.
Let’s start with real-time blood sugar at the time of the failed cuddle-fest. Of course, blood sugar levels can affect male libido and function, but Lani and her mate ruled that out. She told us they checked his BG as part of their foreplay. OK, she didn’t word it quite that way…
Next, let’s think about biological ED. It’s a real and serious problem for male D-folks, but its much more likely in middle-aged men, not young bucks. As to some sort of penile neuropathy, I doubt it. Nerve damage takes time. From your description, I don’t think he spent enough time out-of-control to trigger it. The timing is also bad. While the sins of the past sometimes do come home to roost after long periods of good control, it’s rare. Neuropathy generally rears its ugly head during periods of bad control, or shortly following periods of bad control. It’s not too often you see it in folks who have had good management for five years running. And on top of that, I’d expect neuropathy to hit his feet before it hit his penis.
I think the zebras in the room are the babies next door.
A couple of weird things happen to men when they become fathers, and the younger the man the weirder it’s likely to be. Suddenly his favorite sex toy is a mother. OK. So that’s just… wrong! (At least to the young male brain.) Plus, his favorite sex toy’s best feature just morphed into a baby feeding station. Yuck.
And there’s more. Not only is his lady a new person, or a person with a new role, she probably pays more attention to the new upstart than to her man. And suddenly he has new responsibilities. All of this is stressful. Add to this the fact that babies wreak havoc on sleep schedules, social circles, planned activities, and the family bank account. Back in the day he just had to grab an insulin pen and a meter and he could hit the road. Now he needs a diaper bag that brands him as a new father, rather than as a potential bachelor stud.
Don’t get me wrong. Most men love being fathers. Or more correctly, most come to love their new roles. But it’s a lot to digest all at once. I didn’t check with Dr. Google, but I’d bet the number one cause of low sex drive in marriages is babies in the house.
Now, I know what are going to say, Lani, 'But he was really into it.' The babies were with grandma, etc, etc. Here’s a secret about the human brain: it’s actually several brains wrapped around each other like onion skins. The deepest, most primitive part of the brain controls heart rate, breathing, and the like. The top part is our thinking part. But guess what? The midbrain is where emotion happens. You can think you are relaxed, but if you inner brain is freaking out—kids, bills, kids, work, sleep, kids—it can highjack the whole body and shut down things like erections.
But all of that said, I think I’m more alarmed about the lack of sex volume in your relationship, than I am about one failed hard-on. I see the failed playdate as a symptom of a bigger disease, and one that has nothing to do with his diabetes. He’s let fatherhood and all it’s myriad of responsibilities get in the way of husbandhood.
And that’s what needs to be fixed.
I think this is one time when we could ask that quack, Dr. Google, for his opinion on who would be a good marriage counselor in your area.

 

What Is an Alcohol Addiction?

 What Is an Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a widespread disease that affects people of all walks of life. While experts have long tried to pinpoint genetic, gender, racial, or socioeconomic factors that may predispose someone to alcohol addiction, it appears that it has no singular cause and can afflict anyone.
In the medical community, alcohol addiction has long been considered a psychosomatic condition (Carver, 1948). This means that social, psychological, genetic, and behavioral factors can all contribute to the disease. However, it’s important to note that it is a real disease, and once addicted, an alcoholic may physically be unable to control his or her actions. Research has shown that addiction, including alcohol addiction, causes physical changes to the brain and neurochemistry of an addict.
Alcohol addiction can show itself in a variety of ways. The severity, frequency of use, or type of alcohol consumed varies from one person to the next. Some may drink heavily all day, while others binge drink for a period and then stay sober until their next “bender.” The type of alcohol you drink does not preclude you from alcoholism.
Regardless of how the addiction looks, alcoholism is usually present if a person heavily relies on drinking and cannot stay sober for a long period of time.

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Part 2 of 6: Symptoms

What Are the Symptoms of Alcoholism?

It may be difficult to recognize alcohol addiction. Unlike drugs such as cocaine or heroin, alcohol is a widely available drug and is accepted in most cultures. It is often at the center of social situations and is closely linked to celebration, reward, and enjoyment. Drinking is a part of life for many people, young and old. Also, alcoholics are often good at hiding their drinking from loved ones or minimizing the seriousness of their habit. Because of this, it is hard to tell the difference between someone who likes to have a few drinks now and then and someone with a real problem.
The following could be signs of alcohol addiction.

• increased quantity or frequency of use
• higher tolerance when drinking or lack of “hangover” symptoms
• drinking at inappropriate times (first thing in the morning) or places (church or work)
• wanting to be where alcohol is present and avoiding situations where it is not
• changes in friendships (an alcoholic will choose friends who drink just as heavily)
• avoiding contact with loved ones
• hiding alcohol where no one will find it, or hiding while drinking
• dependence on alcohol to function or be “normal” in everyday life
• increased lethargy, depression, or other emotional issues
• legal or professional problems such as an arrest or loss of job

As this addiction tends to get worse over time, it’s important to look for early warning signs. If identified and treated early, the alcoholic may be able to avoid major consequences of the disease. If you are worried that an addiction is present, it’s best to approach the alcoholic and discuss your concerns in a supportive way. Avoid shaming them or making them feel guilty. This could push them further away and make them more resistant to the help you offer.

Part 3 of 6: Treatments

What Are the Treatment Options for Alcoholism?

Treating alcohol addiction can be complex and challenging. In order for treatment to work, the alcoholic must want to get sober. Usually, you can’t force a person to stop drinking or consider treatment if they aren’t ready. Success depends on the individual’s personal drive to get better.
The recovery process for an alcoholic is a lifetime commitment. It involves daily maintenance, and is not a quick fix. For this reason, many people say alcohol addiction is never “cured.”

Rehab

A common initial treatment option for alcoholics is an outpatient or inpatient rehabilitation. In severe cases, an inpatient program lasting anywhere from 30 days to a year can help the alcoholic handle the withdrawal symptoms and emotional challenges that come with stopping drinking. Outpatient treatment provides daily support while allowing the patient to live in his or her own home.

Alcoholics Anonymous and Other Support Groups

Many alcoholics also turn to 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). However, there are also other support groups that don’t follow the 12-step model. They include SMART Recovery or Sober Recovery.
Regardless of the type of support system someone in recovery chooses, it’s usually important to get involved in at least one. Sober communities can help an alcoholic deal with the challenges of sobriety in day-to-day life. All of these options put the alcoholic in touch with other people who have gone through similar experiences. It makes them accountable and gives them new, healthy friendships. It also provides a place to turn when a relapse may be on the horizon.

Other Options

An alcoholic may also benefit from other treatment methods, such as drug therapy, counseling, or nutritional changes. A doctor may prescribe something like antidepressants if the alcoholic was self-medicating for an existing problem like depression. They can also prescribe drugs to assist with the emotions common in recovery. A therapist is useful in teaching someone to manage the stress of recovery and the skills needed to prevent relapse. Also, a healthy diet can help undo damage that the alcohol may have done to the person’s health, including any weight gain or loss.
In general, alcohol addiction involves several different treatment methods that vary from one person to the next. It’s important that the alcoholic has a recovery program that will work for him or her and support long-term sobriety. This could mean an emphasis on therapy for someone who is depressed, or inpatient treatment for someone with severe withdrawal symptoms. The right treatment for you depends on your specific needs.

Part 4 of 6: Outlook

What is the Outlook for Alcoholism?

When an alcoholic gets help early on, treatment tends be more promising. However, long-term addictions can be successfully treated as well. The danger with waiting to treat the addiction is that it tends to progress quickly. Generally, addictions that have gone on longer are harder to break, though many people are successful after struggling with addiction for years.
Relapses are not uncommon. An alcoholic who has remained sober for months or even years may find himself or herself drinking again. He or she may binge drink once or drink for a period of time before getting sober again. A relapse does not indicate certain failure.
Friends and family of the alcoholic might benefit from seeking professional support or by joining programs like Al-Anon/Alateen. The alcoholic’s recovery process can be just as challenging and painful for loved ones as it is for the alcoholic. Ultimately, however, sobriety is the responsibility of the alcoholic. It’s important to not enable destructive behaviors and to maintain appropriate boundaries if the alcoholic is still drinking. This could mean cutting off financial assistance to the alcoholic or making it more difficult for him or her to indulge in the addiction.

Part 5 of 6: Complications

What Are the Health Complications of Alcoholism?

Untreated, alcohol addiction can result in heart disease and liver disease. Either of these can cause death. Untreated alcoholism can also cause:

• ulcers
• diabetes complications
• sexual problems
• birth defects
• bone loss
• vision problems
• increased cancer risk
• suppressed immune function

If the alcoholic takes risks while drinking, he or she could put others in harm’s way. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drunk driving, for example, takes 30 lives every day in the United States. Drinking is also associated with increased incidence of suicide and homicide.
These serious complications are another reason it’s important to treat this addiction early. But, nearly all of the risks of alcohol addiction are avoidable or treatable with long-term, successful recovery.

Part 6 of 6: Resources

What Are Resources for Alcoholism?

For more information about alcoholism or to help a loved one find options for help, it may be best to talk to your doctor. He or she can refer you to local programs in your area, such as treatment centers or 12-step programs.

Recognizing an Addiction Problem

Part 1 of 6: Recognize

Recognizing A Problem

Recognizing an addiction problem can be harder than it seems. Addicts are often skilled at hiding their behavior, even from their closest friends and family members. Also, what may seem like an addiction could be an experimental phase or how a given person copes with stressful circumstances. But addiction is chronic and usually degenerative, or gets worse over time. Without help in the early stages, an addiction may turn into a debilitating and life-threatening condition. 
No matter the type of addiction, it’s important to recognize warning signs and seek help if necessary.

Part 2 of 6: Early Behavior

Early Behavior

In the early stages, a person might not show telltale signs of a full-blown addiction. When it comes to common behaviors like drinking or smoking, it may be that a person is simply using a substance socially or casually. Therefore, it can be difficult to determine whether or not the behavior is unhealthy or how long it might last. But, even in the early stages, some clues may be present. Signs include:

• being particularly drawn to an activity or substance
• seeking out situations where the substance or activity is present
• episodes of binging or loss of control

Part 3 of 6: Alienation

Alienation

Once a person moves past experimenting or the early phase of addiction, he or she will likely begin to alienate friends and family, pushing away the people who care about them. Addicts tend to surround themselves only with others who either encourage or emulate their addictive behavior. An addict typically won’t put himself or herself in social situations where he or she cannot use their substance of choice or perform the addictive behavior.
At first, alienation may be infrequent, but it will typically progress over time. An addict will try to hide the addictive behavior from loved ones—especially those who may try to stop it. It’s common for addicts to completely cut off contact with their families, friends, spouses, or children. They will avoid phone calls, ignore text messages, and even refuse to answer the door.

Part 4 of 6: Deteriorating Health

Deteriorating Health

Another way to recognize addiction is to pay attention to the individual’s health. Whether the addiction is to a drug or behavior, the addict’s health will almost always decline. Constant illness, injuries, or chronic fatigue may be signs of a problem. The skin, hair, teeth, and nails of an addict may also be in poor condition. This is especially true when the person is abusing illicit drugs like methamphetamines or cocaine. The person may also have a strange sleep schedule or will constantly miss work and other important obligations.
The person’s mental and emotional health may also suffer. The following could be signs of a problem:

• sudden changes in mood
• aggressive behavior
• irritability
• depression
• apathy
• suicidal thoughts

In general, if other factors contributing to mental or physical health issues are absent, it’s likely that a substance abuse or other addiction problem is present.

Part 5 of 6: Life Consequences

Onset of Life Consequences

In the middle or later stages of an addiction, the addict will experience negative results from the addiction. These consequences may be limited to an addict’s personal life, but could include professional or legal problems as well. Some common consequences include:

• dropping out of school or poor grades
• missing work or neglecting important obligations
• damaged relationships with friends and family
• loss of good standing or tarnished reputation
• accidents, injuries, or hospitalizations as a result of addictive behavior
• arrests or jail time
• eviction from the home or failed mortgage payments
• loss of job
• loss of parental rights

While similar issues can occur in the lives of non-addicted persons, these can become more common when an addiction is present. It’s important to gauge whether or not the problem is a result of a single incident or a growing problem with the addiction.

Part 6 of 6: Excuses

Tendency to Make Excuses

Despite the concern of friends and family, an addict will almost always deny the seriousness of his or her addiction. Making excuses is common among addicts. Whether they know they are addicted or not, they will deny it to others. The person will usually have a number of reasons to excuse their behavior.
While a non-addicted person can usually see a negative behavior and eliminate it, this is not the case with an addict. Rather than admit the problem exists, addicts must convince themselves and others why it’s okay to continue the behavior. This is why an intervention or trying to force an addict into treatment often fails. Until an addict “hits bottom” and wants help, he or she won’t be able to admit that they need help. In most cases, an addict must want to change in order for recovery to be successful.