Latest news with #Cushing's
NDTV
6 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
9 Causes For Puffiness In The Face
Facial puffiness can be unsettling, whether it greets you in the mirror first thing in the morning or lingers throughout the day. While occasional puffiness is usually harmless, persistent swelling may signal an underlying issue. The face can appear bloated due to various factors including dietary habits, allergies, fluid retention, or even medical conditions. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, changes in the skin or facial volume can often reflect internal health imbalances. Identifying the cause of facial puffiness is key to finding the right solution and restoring your natural glow. Here are 9 common causes you should know about. Causes for facial puffiness Facial puffiness is not just a cosmetic concern, it can be your body's way of asking for attention. Let's look at the top nine culprits behind that bloated or swollen look. 1. Excessive salt intake Consuming too much sodium causes your body to retain water, especially around the eyes and cheeks. This leads to a puffy appearance, especially in the morning. 2. Allergies Allergic reactions can cause inflammation in the face, especially around the eyes and lips. Common triggers include pollen, pet dander, and certain foods or skincare products. 3. Poor sleep quality Lack of restful sleep or irregular sleep cycles can lead to facial swelling and dark circles. Fluid tends to pool under the eyes when lying down too long or not sleeping well. 4. Alcohol consumption Alcohol dehydrates the body and causes inflammation. This can lead to water retention and noticeable swelling in the face, especially the next day after drinking. 5. Hormonal fluctuations Changes in hormones during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can result in water retention, which contributes to puffiness in the face. 6. Sinus issues Sinus congestion or infections can lead to swelling in the cheeks, under-eye area, and forehead due to fluid buildup and inflammation. 7. Dehydration Ironically, not drinking enough water can cause your body to hold onto fluids. This results in a swollen look, especially around the eyes and mouth. 8. Medical conditions Conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, or kidney disease can lead to persistent puffiness due to fluid imbalance or hormonal dysfunction. 9. Facial infections or inflammation Localised infections such as cellulitis or dental abscesses can cause one side of the face to swell, often accompanied by pain or redness. Facial puffiness isn't always just a beauty concern, it may be a subtle cue from your body. While occasional swelling is common, persistent puffiness warrants attention. Monitoring your diet, hydration, and health habits can make a big difference. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying condition and receive appropriate treatment. Your face reflects your health, listen closely. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Newsweek
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
WWE Superstar Omos Reveals Medical Condition That Nearly Killed Him
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. WWE star Omos, renowned for his towering 7'3" presence, recently shared the story of a life-altering medical condition that was discovered by chance during his college years. He credits the diagnosis with saving his life. In a revealing interview on Insight With Chris Van Vliet, Omos detailed his journey from assuming his rapid growth was normal to facing a critical health crisis. Omos explained his incredible size was never just simple genetics. He recalled being six feet tall by age 11 and shooting up to 6'7" by 13, which he initially thought was just a significant growth spurt. It wasn't until he was playing college basketball in the United States that a doctor's keen observation led to an urgent intervention. Omos recounted the doctor, Dr. Vesely, contacting the university president: "He goes, 'Hey, my name is Dr. Vesely. I saw one of your players, Jordan Omogbehin. By the size of his hands, the size of his jaw, and facial features, I think he might have acromegaly. You need to check him as soon as possible.'" More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation Though Omos initially thought it might be a joke, the warning proved gravely serious. An MRI revealed devastating news. "They pull out the MRI and say, 'You have a pituitary tumor. If you don't take it out, either you're going to go blind, or you're going to have a heart attack.' INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 02: (L-R) Brock Lesnar wrestles Omos during WrestleMania Goes Hollywood at SoFi Stadium on April 02, 2023 in Inglewood, California. INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 02: (L-R) Brock Lesnar wrestles Omos during WrestleMania Goes Hollywood at SoFi Stadium on April 02, 2023 in Inglewood, my body was producing so much growth hormone, it was enlarging my heart. They said, 'We need to get this fixed now,'" Omos shared. He learned he had an unprecedented combination of rare conditions. "It's kind of similar to what Andre the Giant had. It's called acromegaly. Big Show has it as well," Omos explained. "But mine is kind of unique because I have acromegaly, I also have gigantism, and I have partial Cushing's disease. It was the first time in endocrine history that a patient had all three." His case was so unique it was documented in a medical journal. Even today, Omos requires ongoing medical management. "I have to be on meds to stop me from growing, because I still grow. I don't grow this way anymore [taller], but I still grow sideways... So I take medication to stop my body from using the growth hormones so I don't get any bigger." Despite these lifelong challenges, he reports feeling well. "I'm pain-free. I feel great," Omos stated, before underscoring the gravity of the early diagnosis: "But if the doctor hadn't caught it when he did—I would've been dead." He gives full credit to the observant physician: "Shout out to Dr. Vesely. He pretty much saved my life." More WWE News: For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Cushing's Disease Market Poised for Significant Growth Across the 7MM During the Study Period (2020-2034) with Rising Awareness and Diagnostic Improvements
The Cushing's disease pipeline possesses some drugs in mid and late-stage development to be approved in the near future. The emerging landscape holds a diverse range of therapeutic alternatives for treatment, including relacorilant, clofutriben, atumelnant, and others. The expected launch of these therapies shall further create a positive impact on the Cushing's disease market. LAS VEGAS, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's Cushing's Disease Market Insights report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, Cushing's disease emerging drugs, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted market size from 2020 to 2034, segmented into 7MM [the United States, the EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan]. Key Takeaways from the Cushing's Disease Market Report According to DelveInsight's analysis, the market size for Cushing's disease was found to be USD 1 billion in the 7MM in 2024. In 2024, among all the current therapies for Cushing's disease, the highest revenue was generated by Mifepristone (KORLYM and generics) in the US. Based on DelveInsight's assessment in 2024, the 7MM had approximately 37K diagnosed prevalent cases of Cushing's disease. These cases are expected to rise due to advancements in diagnostic capabilities and increased awareness about the disease during the forecast period (2025–2034). Leading Cushing's disease companies developing emerging therapies, such as Corcept Therapeutics, Sparrow Pharmaceuticals, Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, H. Lundbeck, Stero Therapeutics, and others, are developing novel Cushing's disease drugs that can be available in the Cushing's disease market in the coming years. The promising Cushing's disease therapies in the pipeline include DUPIXENT (dupilumab), Linerixibat (GSK2330672), NEMLUVIO/MITCHGA (nemolizumab), Volixibat, and others. In March 2025, Corcept Therapeutics announced that the FDA had assigned a PDUFA target action date of December 30, 2025, for relacorilant to treat patients with endogenous hypercortisolism. In February 2025, Crinetics Pharmaceuticals mentioned that the company anticipates beginning enrollment for Atumelnant (CRN04894) in Phase Ib/IIa trials for Cushing's disease in late 2025 or early 2026. In October 2024, Sparrow Pharmaceuticals announced that clofutriben had been granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) by the US FDA for the treatment of endogenous Cushing's syndrome. Discover which therapies are expected to grab the major Cushing's disease market share @ Cushing's Disease Market Report Cushing's Disease Overview Cushing's disease is a rare but serious endocrine disorder caused by a pituitary tumor that triggers excessive cortisol production. It presents with a variety of symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, mood disturbances, high blood pressure, and impaired glucose tolerance. Cushing's syndrome is responsible for 80–85% of hypercortisolism cases, with 75–80% of those linked to ACTH-producing pituitary adenomas. Without treatment, the 5-year survival rate is only about 50%, emphasizing the urgent need for effective therapies. Diagnosing Cushing's disease is especially difficult because it is rare, shares symptoms with other disorders, and presents in various ways. Only 40–60% of patients have a detectable tumor on standard Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and the diagnosis is often delayed by an average of 7 years. Cushing's Disease Epidemiology Segmentation The Cushing's disease epidemiology section provides insights into the historical and current Cushing's disease patient pool and forecasted trends for the 7MM. It helps recognize the causes of current and forecasted patient trends by exploring numerous studies and views of key opinion leaders. The Cushing's disease market report proffers epidemiological analysis for the study period 2020–2034 in the 7MM segmented into: Total Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease Gender-Specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease Age-Specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease Cushing's Disease Treatment Market The primary treatment for Cushing's disease is usually transsphenoidal surgery to remove the pituitary tumor, which often leads to remission. However, some patients may experience a recurrence. When surgery is unsuccessful or not an option, medical therapies are used to control cortisol levels. Various medications are available for managing Cushing's disease, especially in cases where surgery is ineffective or not feasible. One such drug is KORLYM, developed by Corcept Therapeutics, approved for treating hyperglycemia in patients with Cushing's syndrome who also have Type 2 diabetes or glucose intolerance. In 2024, a generic version by Teva Pharmaceuticals entered the market, adding competition, and Corcept itself has released a generic version as well. Other approved options include SIGNIFOR and SIGNIFOR LAR, ISTURISA, and RECORLEV. In addition, off-label drugs like ketoconazole, metyrapone, cabergoline, mitotane, and etomidate are also used in the U.S., with some marketed in Europe by HRA Pharma. SIGNIFOR (pasireotide), developed by Recordati, was the first drug specifically approved for Cushing's disease by the FDA in 2012, and also gained EU approval. Recordati also markets SIGNIFOR LAR, a long-acting injectable version approved by the FDA and Japan's PMDA in 2018. This formulation, administered intramuscularly once every four weeks, shares the same mechanism as SIGNIFOR but offers a different delivery route. Recordati is recognized as a leading player in this therapeutic area. Another key product from the company is ISTURISA (osilodrostat), the first FDA-approved oral drug that inhibits cortisol production by targeting the enzyme 11β-hydroxylase (CYP11B1), which is involved in the final step of cortisol synthesis. Its oral administration makes it more convenient for patients compared to injectable therapies. ISTURISA is also being studied for pediatric use in an ongoing Phase II trial (NCT03708900). RECORLEV, originally developed by Strongbridge Biopharma and later acquired by Xeris Pharmaceuticals, was approved by the FDA in 2021. It is indicated for adults with endogenous Cushing's syndrome who are not surgical candidates or did not achieve a cure through surgery. Unlike ISTURISA, RECORLEV works by inhibiting cortisol production at multiple points in the steroidogenesis pathway, offering a distinct mechanism of action. To know more about Cushing's disease treatment guidelines, visit @ Cushing's Disease Management Cushing's Disease Pipeline Therapies and Key Companies Relacorilant (CORT125134): Corcept Therapeutics Clofutriben (SPI-62): Sparrow Pharmaceuticals Atumelnant (CRN04894): Crinetics Pharmaceuticals Lu AG13909: H. Lundbeck ST-002: Stero Therapeutics Discover more about Cushing's disease drugs in development @ Cushing's Disease Clinical Trials Cushing's Disease Market Dynamics The Cushing's disease market dynamics are expected to change in the coming years. Although Cushing's disease is generally considered a rare condition, growing awareness and recent advances in research suggest that diagnoses may rise in the future; despite a seemingly crowded market, many current hypercortisolism treatments fail to normalize cortisol levels effectively and pose significant side effects highlighting a substantial opportunity for innovation, especially given the limited therapies specifically targeting Cushing's disease and the potential of newer oral alternatives like ISTURISA and RECORLEV to offer greater flexibility compared to SC and intramuscular options such as SIGNIFOR and SIGNIFOR LAR. Furthermore, potential therapies are being investigated for the treatment of Cushing's disease, and it is safe to predict that the treatment space will significantly impact the Cushing's disease market during the forecast period. Moreover, the anticipated introduction of emerging therapies with improved efficacy and a further improvement in the diagnosis rate are expected to drive the growth of the Cushing's disease market in the 7MM. However, several factors may impede the growth of the Cushing's disease market. Due to non-specific guidelines and recommendations, patients with Cushing's disease often face suboptimal care, delayed diagnosis, and inconsistent treatment approaches, further compounded by the diagnostic complexity, frequent misdiagnosis, and symptom overlap with more common conditions, which leave many undiagnosed or untreated; while existing therapies such as ketoconazole and metyrapone approved in Europe based on limited retrospective data and used off-label in the US despite high costs are widely trusted and entrenched in clinical practice, posing a significant barrier to the adoption of emerging therapies. Moreover, Cushing's disease treatment poses a significant economic burden and disrupts patients' overall well-being and QOL. Furthermore, the Cushing's disease market growth may be offset by failures and discontinuation of emerging therapies, unaffordable pricing, market access and reimbursement issues, and a shortage of healthcare specialists. In addition, the undiagnosed, unreported cases and the unawareness about the disease may also impact the Cushing's disease market growth. Cushing's Disease Market Report Metrics Details Study Period 2020–2034 Coverage 7MM [The United States, the EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and The United Kingdom, and Japan]. Cushing's Disease Market Size in 2024 USD 1 Billion Key Cushing's Disease Companies Xeris Pharmaceuticals, Recordati, Corcept Therapeutics, Sparrow Pharmaceuticals, H. Lundbeck, Stero Therapeutics, Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, and others Key Cushing's Disease Therapies RECORLEV, ISTURISA, SIGNIFOR, SIGNIFOR LAR, KORLYM, Relacorilant, Clofutriben, Lu AG13909, ST-002, Atumelnant, and others Scope of the Cushing's Disease Market Report Therapeutic Assessment: Cushing's Disease current marketed and emerging therapies Cushing's Disease Market Dynamics: Key Market Forecast Assumptions of Emerging Cushing's Disease Drugs and Market Outlook Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, Cushing's Disease Market Access and Reimbursement Download the report to understand which factors are driving Cushing's disease market trends @ Cushing's Disease Market Trends Table of Contents 1 Key Insights 2 Report Introduction 3 Executive Summary 4 Key Events 5 Epidemiology and Market Forecast Methodology 6 Cushing's Disease Market Overview at a Glance 6.1 Market Share (%) Distribution by Therapies of Cushing's Disease in 2024 6.2 Market Share (%) Distribution by Therapies of Cushing's Disease in 2034 7 Disease Background and Overview 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Clinical and Biological Characteristics 7.3 Genetics of Cushing's Disease 7.4 Pathogenesis and Pathophysiology 7.5 Complications of Cushing's Disease 7.6 Diagnosis of Cushing's Disease 7.6.1 Diagnostic Algorithm 7.7 Treatment and Management of Cushing's Disease 7.7.1 Treatment Algorithm of Cushing's Disease 8 Guidelines, Recommendations, and Management for Cushing's Disease 8.1 Consensus on Diagnosis and Management of Cushing's Disease: A Guideline Update (2020) (The United States) 8.2 Treatment of Cushing's Syndrome: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline (2015) (Europe) 8.3 Clinical Significance of Screening for Subclinical Cushing's Disease in Patients With Pituitary Tumors (2010) (Japan) 9 Epidemiology and Patient Population 9.1 Key Findings 9.2 Assumptions and Rationales 9.3 Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in the 7MM 9.4 The United States 9.4.1 Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in the US 9.4.2 Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in the US 9.4.3 Age-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in the US 9.5 EU4 and the UK 9.5.1 Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in EU4 and the UK 9.5.2 Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in EU4 and the UK 9.5.3 Age-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in EU4 and the UK 9.6 Japan 9.6.1 Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in Japan 9.6.2 Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in Japan 9.6.3 Age-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Cushing's Disease in Japan 10 Patient Journey 11 Marketed Drug 11.1 Marketed Drug Details 11.2 ISTURISA (osilodrostat): Recordati 11.2.1 Product Description 11.2.2 Regulatory Milestones 11.2.3 Other Developmental Activities 11.2.4 Clinical Development Activities 11.2.4.1 Clinical Trials Information 11.2.5 Safety and Efficacy 11.3 RECORLEV (levoketoconazole): Xeris Pharmaceuticals 11.3.1 Product Description 11.3.2 Regulatory Milestones 11.3.3 Other Developmental Activities 11.3.4 Safety and Efficacy 11.4 SIGNIFOR (pasireotide): Recordati 11.4.1 Product Description 11.4.2 Regulatory Milestones 11.4.3 Other Developmental Activities 11.4.4 Safety and Efficacy 11.5 SIGNIFOR LAR (pasireotide pamoate): Recordati 11.5.1 Product Description 11.5.2 Regulatory Milestones 11.5.3 Other Developmental Activities 11.5.4 Safety and Efficacy 12 Emerging Drugs 12.1 Key Cross Competition 12.2 Relacorilant (CORT125134): Corcept Therapeutics 12.2.1 Product Description 12.2.2 Other Development Activity 12.2.3 Clinical Development 12.2.3.1 Clinical Trial Information 12.2.4 Safety and Efficacy 12.3 Clofutriben (SPI-62): Sparrow Pharmaceuticals 12.3.1 Product Description 12.3.2 Other Development Activity 12.3.3 Clinical Development 12.3.3.1 Clinical Trial Information 12.3.4 Safety and Efficacy 12.4 Atumelnant (CRN04894): Crinetics Pharmaceuticals 12.4.1 Product Description 12.4.2 Other Development Activity 12.4.3 Clinical Development 12.4.3.1 Clinical Trial Information 12.4.4 Safety and Efficacy 13 Cushing's Disease: Seven Major Market Analysis 13.1 Key Findings 13.2 Market Outlook 13.3 Key Market Forecast Assumptions 13.3.1 Cost Assumptions and Rebates 13.3.2 Pricing Trends 13.3.3 Analogue Assessment 13.3.4 Launch Year and Therapy Uptakes 13.4 Conjoint Analysis 13.5 Total Market Size of Cushing's Disease in the 7MM 13.6 Market Size of Cushing's Disease by Therapies in 7MM 13.7 The United States 13.7.1 Total Market Size of Cushing's Disease in the US 13.7.2 Market Size of Cushing's Disease by Therapies in the US 13.8 EU4 and the UK 13.8.1 Total Market Size of Cushing's Disease in the EU4 and the UK 13.8.2 Market Size of Cushing's Disease by Therapies in EU4 and the UK 13.9 Japan 13.9.1 Total Market Size of Cushing's Disease in Japan 13.9.2 The Market Size of Cushing's Disease by Therapies in Japan 14 Unmet Needs 15 SWOT Analysis 16 KOL Views 17 Market Access and Reimbursement 17.1 The United States 17.1.1 Centre for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) 17.2 EU4 and the UK 17.2.1 Germany 17.2.2 France 17.2.3 Italy 17.2.4 Spain 17.2.5 United Kingdom 17.3 Japan 17.3.1 MHLW 17.4 Market Access and Reimbursement of Cushing's Disease 18 Appendix 18.1 Bibliography 18.2 Report Methodology 19 DelveInsight Capabilities 20 Disclaimer 21 About DelveInsight Related Reports Cushing's Syndrome Market Cushing's Syndrome Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034 report deliver an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key Cushing's syndrome companies including Corcept Therapeutics, Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Cyclacel Pharmaceuticals, Sparrow Pharmaceuticals, Stero Therapeutics, among others. Cushing's Syndrome Pipeline Cushing's Syndrome Pipeline Insight – 2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and non-clinical stage products, and the key Cushing's syndrome companies, including Corcept Therapeutics, Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Cyclacel Pharmaceuticals, Sparrow Pharmaceuticals, Stero Therapeutics, among others. Endogenous Cushing's Syndrome Market Endogenous Cushing's Syndrome Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034 report deliver an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key endogenous Cushing's syndrome companies including Corcept Therapeutics, Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Sparrow Pharmaceuticals, among others. Endogenous Cushing's Syndrome Pipeline Endogenous Cushing's Syndrome Pipeline Insight – 2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and non-clinical stage products, and the key endogenous Cushing's syndrome companies, including Corcept Therapeutics, Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Sparrow Pharmaceuticals, among others. About DelveInsight DelveInsight is a leading Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. Get hassle-free access to all the healthcare and pharma market research reports through our subscription-based platform PharmDelve. Contact Us Shruti Thakur info@ + Logo: View original content: SOURCE DelveInsight Business Research, LLP
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pets Best pet insurance review 2025
Pets Best rating (Elite policy): 5 out of 5 stars Best for: Overall Pets Best topped Yahoo Finance's evaluation of the best pet insurance companies thanks to its unparalleled combination of competitive average costs and extensive coverage. There are three Pets Best policies to choose from, each with slightly different coverage details and costs: Essential, Plus, and Elite. The Elite plan scored five stars in our evaluation, and the Plus (4.7 stars) and Essential (4.6 stars) policies were also top rated. Pros Unlimited annual coverage option available Affordable $50 deductible option Low average cost in our price comparison, especially for the unlimited annual policy Ability to pay a vet directly so you don't have to wait for reimbursement Alternative therapy covered Behavioral therapy medication and consultations covered Reimbursement can be made directly to a CareCredit card Cons No coverage for supplements or prescription food Excludes chronic problems such as hip dysplasia, diabetes, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, and Cushing's Learn more: How does pet insurance work? A complete guide. When shopping for pet insurance, look at these basic details: Annual maximum limit choices: $5,000, unlimited Deductible choices: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500 Reimbursement choices: 70%, 80%, 90% For accident coverage: 3 days (in most states) For illness coverage: 14 days (in most states) Special waiting period: 6 months for cruciate ligament issues Minimum pet age: 7 weeks Maximum pet age: None Pets Best policies cover a wide range of problems, from hereditary and congenital conditions to cancer to infections. Here's a closer look at coverage under the Pets Best Elite policy. The policy offers the highest level of coverage among Pets Best's three plans, including: The vet exam fee Hereditary and congenital conditions such as cherry eye and Wobbler syndrome Diagnostics such as X-rays and ultrasounds Dental accidents and illnesses Behavioral therapy consultations and prescription medicines (but not behavioral treatment or training) Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, cold laser therapy, physical therapy, and hydrotherapy. Prescription drugs Euthanasia The accident-only plan covers problems such as broken bones, foreign bodies that are swallowed, and injuries from being hit by a vehicle. Pets Best offers two tiers of wellness plans: EssentialWellness and BestWellness. Both cover the same routine care expenses but with different pricing and annual maximums: EssentialWellness: Benefits up to $305/year for $14-$21.75/month BestWellness: Benefits up to $535/year for $26-$32.58/month The EssentialWellness and BestWellness plans will reimburse you up to specified limits for the following: An annual wellness exam Vaccinations Teeth cleaning Spaying and neutering Rabies Flea/tick prevention Heartworm prevention Deworming Titer vaccine test Heartworm test or FELV screen Blood, fecal, parasite exam Urinalysis or ERD Microchipping Pets Best does not cover any preexisting conditions. It defines a preexisting condition as: 'Any condition for which a veterinarian provided medical advice, the pet received treatment for, or the pet displayed signs or symptoms consistent with the stated condition prior to the effective date of a pet insurance policy [Policy Effective Date] or during any waiting period.' Yes, if you buy pet insurance from Pets Best you'll have access to its 24/7 pet helpline. This gives you access to veterinary experts with no limits on usage of the helpline. It's ideal for questions about things the pet has eaten, training tips, and other issues. Pets Best policies won't cover expenses such as: Prescriptions not included in Pets Best's formulary Breeding Boarding and transportation, including ambulances Preexisting bilateral conditions, even when they appear on the other side of the body Elective and cosmetic procedures, such as tail docking and declawing Experimental medications and therapies Claims for pets who were found to be healthy and with no clinical symptoms Complications from tests and treatments not covered by the policy Anal gland expression Injuries from intentional acts, such as dog fighting Conditions due to racing, such as sled and track racing Cremation and burial (although euthanasia is covered) Increases: You can increase coverage only at the annual renewal time, such as moving from 70% to 80% coinsurance. However, increasing your annual limit will require canceling the policy and buying a new one. This will reset the waiting periods and the preexisting coverage exclusions. Decreases: You can decrease your Pets Best coverage at any time, such as lowering your annual limit or going from 80% to 70% coinsurance. We found Pets Best's costs to be competitive, especially for its unlimited policy. In our evaluation, Pets Best's policy with $5,000 in annual coverage has costs below the average. For unlimited annual coverage, Pets Best is a bargain considering the coverage included. While Lemonade has a lower average cost for its base plan, many of Lemonade's coverage types require extra costs for add-ons. Yes, Pets Best has a 5% multi-pet discount per pet when you insure more than one cat or dog. Another advantage with Pets Best is the ability to pay a vet directly. To use Vet Direct Pay, you send a signed copy of a veterinarian reimbursement form along with your claim paperwork. Here's what to know about making claims for Pets Best pet insurance: To make a claim: You'll need to submit a completed claim form and copies of all paid invoices. Pets Best may require complete medical records for the pet in order to process the claim. To submit claims quickly: Log in to your customer account online and upload everything electronically. To receive reimbursements faster: Set up a default reimbursement selection in your account. You can get reimbursement directly to a bank account or a CareCredit credit card if you have one. If your claim is denied: You can appeal the decision. You have 180 days from the vet visit to submit a claim to Pets Best. Pets Best says it takes five to seven days if payments are going directly to your bank account and three or five days if you've chosen to get reimbursement to your CareCredit credit card. Paper checks will take longer. A good mobile app is important so that you can check your coverage details and claims status. Pets Best's mobile app is highly rated by users. With its app, you can access your pet's coverage information, submit and view claims, receive reminders for payments, access the 24/7 telehealth line, and more. Take a look at Pets Best mobile app ratings: Apple App store: 4.6 of of 5 stars Google Play store: 4.8 of of 5 stars Pets Best pet insurance is available in all 50 states. You can make claims with Pets Best from any veterinarian in U.S., Canada, and U.S. territory or military installations/bases in foreign countries. There's no pet medical exam requirement for buying a Pets Best policy. You can contact Pets Best either by phone, fax, or mail: Contact Pets Best at 1-877-738-7237 from Monday to Friday (6 a.m to 7 p.m. MT) and Saturday (6 a.m. to 2 p.m. MT) The fax number is 1-866-777-1434 The mailing address is: Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC, 965 Keller Rd., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 Pets Best has a 30-day free look period during which you can cancel a policy for a full refund as long as no claims were paid. This cancellation will void the policy. You can cancel your Pets Best policy at any time by notifying them in writing via mail, fax, or email. Policies canceled in midterm will be refunded on a pro-rata basis. We researched the coverage details and prices for 15 pet insurance plans. We then weighted categories and each pet insurer was scored relative to the others to find the best pet insurance companies. Here are the factors we incorporated. Coverage types: 40% of score. We examined the coverage provided by the base policy, without the extra cost of add-ons. This encompassed coverage for alternative therapy, behavioral therapy, dental illness, euthanasia or end-of-life expenses, exotic pets, hereditary and congenital conditions, preexisting conditions, prescription food and supplements, veterinary exam fees, and advertising/reward for lost/stolen pets. Average cost: 30% of score. We evaluated costs in five states for $5,000 and unlimited coverage for a mixed-breed dog (age 1), a French bulldog (age 5), and a Labrador retriever (age 8). Unlimited coverage option: 10% of score. We gave points when pet insurers offered an unlimited annual limit (or a $100,000 limit), which gives pet owners the most robust financial protection possible in the event of a catastrophic pet medical issue. Direct payments to the veterinarian: 5% of score. We gave points to pet insurers that state on their websites that they accommodate direct vet payments. No special waiting periods for special conditions: 5% of score. We have points when pet insurers have no waiting periods for special conditions, such as cruciate ligament conditions. Routine wellness plan: 5% of score. Companies that offer a routine wellness plan in addition to pet insurance received points. Multi-pet discount: 5% of score. We gave points when pet insurers offered a discount for insuring multiple pets.
The Guardian
29-04-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
Feeling stressed and wondering if a ‘cortisol detox' can help? Not so fast
As a psychologist, Carly Dober's clients often come in talking about their cortisol levels as the reason things are hard for them. When Dober asks them where they came across that information, the answer is often the online wellness space, where the idea of a 'cortisol detox' is promoted as an antidote to stress and exhaustion. Excess amounts of the hormone is also being blamed for everything from increased belly fat to disrupted sleep and the advice to 'detox' often involves influencers recommending programs spanning meditation, spending time in the sunshine, changes to diet, specific supplements like ginseng and ice baths. Dober says these online influencers advocating a cortisol detox are 'hijacking attention' using a medicalised name to give themselves an air of legitimacy that can translate to followers, engagement, money and customers. 'It sounds like an easy fix to whatever issues might be happening in your life to target one particular chemical [but] the framing of this as a dangerous chemical is really problematic because it's necessary,' Dober says. Cortisol is the body's main stress hormone, produced by the adrenal glands, and your body usually produces the right amount of cortisol to keep you healthy. Prof Creswell Eastman, an endocrinologist and clinical professor of medicine at the University of Sydney, says cortisol is an 'essential hormone for life' which regulates blood pressure and the metabolism. Cortisol levels do increase with everyday stresses – and cause blood pressure, heart rate and blood sugar levels to rise with them – but that process is actually protective to help you solve problems and overcome that source of stress, Eastman says. 'It's our physiological response to the flight and fight mechanism, ensuring that we can survive some threat to our wellbeing. That's why we make cortisol.' If someone's adrenal glands were to be taken out and they were no longer able to produce the cortisol hormone, when they were confronted with a stress they would not be able to respond to it, he says. The only people who have too much cortisol have the rare Cushing's disease – when the body makes too much cortisol – or Cushing's syndrome, which occurs when a person takes too many medicines that are similar to cortisol, Eastman says. 'There's no way you can detox from that.' 'There's no such thing as detoxing from cortisol excess.' Dober says 'we need a healthy 'Goldilocks' amount of stress to thrive and grow and to learn. As humans, we don't want to have no stress in our lives. It's not realistic.' Chronic stress – which lasts longer than three months – does impact health, wellbeing and immune system, she says. Stress management should be part of people's everyday self-care, but Dober says the focus on the cortisol levels themselves is unhelpful and there are no ways to quantify them for the average person. She warns some 'cortisol detox' tips being given could be harmful, especially when it is assumed the tips will work for everyone. As just one example: cold plunges or cold water immersion therapy can be dangerous for those with pre-existing heart conditions. Prof Karena Burke, the head of the school of psychology at the University of Wollongong, says 'just focusing on cortisol reduction can be problematic, and not having enough is just as problematic as having too much'. 'There are aspects of the 'detox' process that is really great advice, but honestly the focus people should have is on changes to their lifestyle overall and sustaining those changes over time,' Burke says. 'It is possible to 'feel better' after two to three weeks on these sorts of programs, but that's because they also focus on dietary changes, stress management techniques and factors like reducing alcohol, spending time outside in nature and on increasing social connection.' If someone is feeling that they are constantly stressed, they can try techniques like relaxation, deep breathing and journaling, or increasing their physical activity – walking outside or along the beach is just as good as going to the gym – and working on their sleep hygiene, Burke recommends. It is important to consult a doctor, counsellor, psychologist or another healthcare professional, especially if someone is feeling really stressed or if they are planning major lifestyle changes (including dietary changes). A professional can assist to monitor the impacts and adaptations taking place. Burke says, 'we've all heard it before, but there are few (if any) quick fixes, and there needs to be an individualised approach taken – that may mean experimenting with different things to see what works best.' Dober says if people have genuine concerns around their cortisol levels, they should see their GP or an endocrinologist, but if we are thinking about general life stress, 'trying to learn how to best manage stress at different points of your life can be very, very helpful'. Natasha May is Guardian Australia's health reporter Antiviral is a fortnightly column that interrogates the evidence behind the health headlines and factchecks popular wellness claims What health trend do you want examined? Your contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian. Your contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian.
