Latest news with #PHN
Time Business News
28-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Pregabalin 150mg for Post-Herpetic Neuralgia: Fast Relief?
Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is one of the most common and challenging complications of shingles, affecting the nerves and causing persistent pain that can last for months or even years. Patients with PHN often struggle to find effective and sustainable relief. One medication that has gained attention in this domain is Pregabalin 150mg, known for its nerve-calming properties and effectiveness in chronic neuropathic pain. But how fast does it work? And is it truly a reliable solution? In this article, we explore the role of Pregabalin 150mg in managing post-herpetic neuralgia, its mechanism of action, how quickly it provides relief, and what patients can realistically expect. Understanding Post-Herpetic Neuralgia Post-herpetic neuralgia is nerve pain that persists after a shingles infection (herpes zoster) has healed. It typically affects older adults and results from nerve damage caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Symptoms include: Burning, stabbing, or aching pain in the area where shingles occurred Heightened skin sensitivity Pain lasting more than three months after the rash clears Sleep disturbances and emotional distress The intensity and duration of PHN pain can vary greatly between individuals, making personalized treatment crucial. What is Pregabalin 150mg? Pregabalin 150mg, sold under brand names like Lyrica, is an anticonvulsant and anxiolytic medication that is FDA-approved for treating neuropathic pain, including post-herpetic neuralgia. It belongs to a class of drugs known as gabapentinoids, which modulate nerve activity. The 150mg dose is considered a mid-range starting or maintenance dose in PHN treatment and can be adjusted based on response and tolerance. How Does Pregabalin Work for PHN? Pregabalin doesn't work by blocking pain signals directly like opioids or NSAIDs. Instead, it binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in overexcited nerves. This reduces the release of neurotransmitters such as glutamate, norepinephrine, and substance P, all of which are associated with pain transmission and nerve sensitization. This calms the overactive nerves, reducing the abnormal firing that contributes to the burning and tingling sensations in PHN. How Fast Does Pregabalin 150mg Work for PHN? This is the key question for most patients suffering from PHN. The onset of relief depends on several factors, including the individual's pain intensity, how long they've had PHN, and their sensitivity to medications. Timeline of Effects: Initial Response : Some patients begin noticing relief within 3 to 5 days , especially improved sleep due to reduced nighttime pain. : Some patients begin noticing relief , especially improved sleep due to reduced nighttime pain. Peak Relief : Most patients experience significant improvement within 2 to 4 weeks at the 150mg dose. : Most patients experience at the 150mg dose. Full Effectiveness: It may take up to 6 to 8 weeks for the full benefits, especially in long-standing or severe PHN cases. If relief is insufficient, the dose may be increased to 300mg per day under medical supervision. Clinical Evidence Supporting Pregabalin for PHN Multiple clinical studies have confirmed Pregabalin's effectiveness in reducing PHN pain: A randomized controlled trial published in Neurology found that patients on Pregabalin 150–600mg/day had significantly lower pain scores and better sleep quality compared to placebo. found that had significantly lower pain scores and better sleep quality compared to placebo. In another meta-analysis of over 1000 patients, Pregabalin showed substantial relief within 2 weeks, particularly in patients with moderate to severe pain. These findings reinforce its role as a first-line treatment in neuropathic pain management. Advantages of Pregabalin 150mg for PHN ✅ Targeted Nerve Pain Relief Pregabalin targets nerve-related pain specifically, which is crucial for conditions like PHN where traditional painkillers may not work. ✅ Improved Sleep Quality PHN pain often flares up at night. Pregabalin helps improve sleep by calming nerve activity and reducing nighttime pain. ✅ Better Quality of Life Reduction in pain leads to better mood, fewer depressive symptoms, and improved physical activity levels. ✅ Fewer Gastrointestinal Side Effects Compared to NSAIDs and opioids, Pregabalin does not cause stomach ulcers or constipation. Potential Side Effects of Pregabalin 150mg While effective, Pregabalin is not without side effects, particularly in elderly patients. Common side effects include: Dizziness or drowsiness Blurred vision Weight gain Dry mouth Swelling in hands or feet Serious but rare effects: Suicidal thoughts Severe allergic reactions Mood changes Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing to 150mg can minimize side effects. Who Should Not Take Pregabalin? Not everyone is an ideal candidate for Pregabalin. Caution is advised in: Elderly patients with balance issues (due to risk of falls) with balance issues (due to risk of falls) Patients with kidney disease (Pregabalin is renally excreted) (Pregabalin is renally excreted) People with a history of substance misuse Those who drive or operate machinery until they know how it affects them Always consult a healthcare provider before starting Pregabalin. Pregabalin 150mg: Dosage & Administration for PHN Starting Dose : Often 75mg twice daily or 150mg once at night : Often 75mg twice daily or 150mg once at night Maintenance : 150–300mg/day in divided doses : 150–300mg/day in divided doses Maximum Dose: 600mg/day (usually reserved for severe or unresponsive cases) Food doesn't affect its absorption, so it can be taken with or without meals. Patient Tips for Best Results Take consistently at the same time daily at the same time daily Do not stop suddenly – taper down gradually to avoid withdrawal – taper down gradually to avoid withdrawal Track pain levels – use a journal to monitor response – use a journal to monitor response Report side effects – dizziness and swelling should be noted – dizziness and swelling should be noted Combine with lifestyle support – gentle exercise, meditation, and physical therapy can boost recovery What to Expect After Starting Pregabalin 150mg Week Expected Outcome Week 1 Mild pain reduction, better sleep, possible dizziness Week 2 Noticeable drop in burning/stabbing sensations Maximum effect, pain is significantly more manageable Steady relief, improved daytime function Week 6+ Maximum effect, pain significantly more manageable Note: If no benefit is seen by Week 4, dosage adjustment or medication change may be necessary. Is Pregabalin 150mg a Long-Term Solution? For many patients, yes. Some continue taking it for months or even years under medical supervision if PHN is persistent. Others taper off as the nerve heals. However, long-term use requires regular monitoring, especially in elderly patients, to prevent dependence or tolerance. Conclusion: Is Pregabalin 150mg the Answer for PHN? When used under proper medical guidance and combined with supportive therapies, Pregabalin 150mg can significantly improve the lives of those suffering from PHN. It might not cure the condition, but for many, it restores comfort, mobility, and peace of mind. FAQs Q: Is Pregabalin 150mg addictive? A: While not highly addictive, it can cause dependence if misused or taken long-term without supervision. Q: Can I take Pregabalin with other medications for PHN? A: Yes, but always check for interactions. Tricyclic antidepressants and topical lidocaine are sometimes used together with Pregabalin. Q: Can Pregabalin cure PHN? A: No, it manages symptoms. The goal is to reduce pain while the nerve heals naturally over time. Q: What if 150mg doesn't work? A: Your doctor may increase the dose or combine it with another therapy. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Penguins Prospects: Brunicke & Broz, Why the 2nd Rounders are Next
CRANBERRY — Tristan Broz and Harrison Brunicke were drafted three years apart and by different regimes, but both Pittsburgh Penguins second-round picks appear poised to make waves in the Penguins' prospect pool. Brunicke was the Penguins' first of two second-round picks in 2024 (44th overall), and despite long odds, the defenseman nearly made the NHL team out of training camp last season and has done nothing in this year's Development Camp to show that he's regressed. The PHN analysis has been favorable to the right-shot defenseman. In fact, the one thing keeping him from the Penguins' lineup might be space. Currently, the team has at least three right-shot defensemen ahead of him on the depth chart, including the newly acquired Connor Clifton. Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson are the other two D-men already on the NHL roster, and even as Karlsson's name appears weekly in the NHL trade rumors, his hefty $10 million salary cap hit and subpar performance last season complicate any deals. Yet, Brunicke has zipped around his fellow prospects on the ice as easily as he leaped ahead of professional defensemen last fall. While Brunicke can't turn pro this season unless he makes the NHL roster (and only the NHL roster), he has proven to be a quick study. 'Getting to play in those four or five preseason games really helped my development,' Brunicke told PHN. 'And also going to Wilkes at the end year, I thought that was really good for me–just to get a taste of pro hockey. You know, I'm not going to lie, the first couple of games were definitely hard to adjust to, but once you kind of figured it out, I thought I was playing some of my best hockey.' He played 10 games for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins last season following the conclusion of his juniors season, registering just two assists. And he's correct. The first few games did not go so well, but by the playoffs, he was the best defenseman on the ice and scored the biggest goal of the WBS's season before the team gave up a late goal to lose a deciding playoff game. The 6-foot-3, 202-pound blue liner is also learning an important lesson for defensemen: Sometimes, doing less is more. 'The goal he scored in the playoffs was outstanding. I thought his ability to kill plays–the less he does in certain areas, the more he accomplishes,' said WBS coach Kirk MacDonald. '(He accomplishes more) just by making a really good first pass and then activating and jumping in the rush.' For those who have attended the Development Camp, Brunicke's agile skating and acceleration have been immediately noticeable. During crowded center ice drills on Sunday, he skated around players backward and forward, finding passing lanes and keeping the puck despite tight pressure. Brunicke has already learned a couple of the hard lessons, and he's showing them off at camp. 'He figured it out quick. He came in initially (and had to overcome) juniors habits, where you can just skate by people and hold onto the puck for a long time–I thought he did a really good job,' said MacDonald. 'The last couple of regular season games and the playoff stint, he was moving pucks quick, jumping in the rush.' If the Penguins have space, Brunicke looks like a steal for a second-rounder, and Penguins fans might very well get a good look at him in October. Tristan Broz Once Broz, 22, was properly cast, his career took off. He was a bottom-line winger for the University of Denver in the 2023-24 season, his final collegiate campaign. Things were not going well for the 2021 second-rounder, drafted by former GM Ron Hextall with the team's first selection in the draft. Then, team injuries created opportunity, and Broz was moved to center by coach David Carle in the middle of the season. By the end of the year, Broz had scored a couple of overtime goals in the NCAA tournament, and Denver won the national championship. Riding the wave of momentum that carried him from Denver to a couple of playoff games with WBS to turning pro, Broz hit the ground running with WBS last season. MacDonald seemed to hint that the expectation is for Broz to start the year in the AHL, but big things are expected soon. 'I think he's going to have a huge year for us. I think a big thing to remember is he has only played center basically for a year and a half. And he's done a great job with it. His reads are really good. I think he's gonna take a bigger role in our penalty kill, assuming he's with us,' MacDonald said. 'I know he's coming (to Pittsburgh) with the goal to play (in Pittsburgh), but from that standpoint, I think there's an opportunity for him to have a big role this year and then knock on the door. Because I really thought before he got mono, he was gonna play up here this year. He was outstanding for us … I know he's probably training his ass off right now to be ready to go for September.' Misfortune caught Broz last winter, and he missed weeks in the middle of the season due to mono. No skating, no working out, just weathering the storm until he could return. Even then, it took a few weeks or more to hit his full stride. Broz has aged out of the Development Camp and is not in Cranberry this week. However, MacDonald's swift and earnest praise quickly exceeded the usual public pat on the back for players. When discussing how well Broz was playing before illness, MacDonald's head shook and his voice changed, both conveying amazement. Indeed, the Penguins' NHL roster is stocked with NHL forwards. More than they keep, actually. A rough count of players who will be fighting for an NHL roster spot is 18, including depth players such as Joona Koppanen and newly signed Rafael Harvey-Pinard. That number does not include Broz, though even Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas indicated last April that he intended to call up Broz but did not because he felt the Penguins' situation was not advantageous for the player. Could Broz's shifty skating and surprisingly slick hands claim a middle-six center spot? In 59 AHL games, he had 19 goals and 37 points, but a dozen or so of those games were spent trying to get back into shape after being wiped out by the illness. Broz also had three points (2-1-3) in two playoff games. While the attention over the past several days has focused on 2025 first-round picks Ben Kindel, Bill Zonnon, and Will Horcoff, it's a pair of second-rounders who are up next in the Penguins' rebuild. The post Penguins Prospects: Brunicke & Broz, Why the 2nd Rounders are Next appeared first on Pittsburgh Hockey Now.
9 News
04-07-2025
- Health
- 9 News
Fears for vulnerable Aussies as hub plan leaves mental health provider in limbo
Your web browser is no longer supported. To improve your experience update it here More than 800 vulnerable Australians are "in limbo" as the mental health care provider they rely on for support faces closure. Momentum Mental Health offers coaching, group programs, bulk-billed psychological therapies and other support to hundreds of locals in Toowoomba and its surrounds. With a waitlist of more than 200 people, Momentum's services are in high demand. Momentum Mental Health staff supported more than 800 clients last year. (Instagram/@momentummentalhealth1) But a recent redistribution of mental health funding has seen the establishment of a $3.6 million integrated mental health hub instead. Darling Downs and West Moreton Primary Health Network (PHN) manages all aspects of primary health care in the region, including mental health, and tailor services to meet community needs. Last year, the PHN announced plans for the new hub which would offer a range of mental health services, including clinical care and psychosocial support, in one location. The hub would be run by one or more existing providers that would work individually or in partnership to provide these vital services. Initially, the Momentum team were excited by the prospect. "We love the idea of an integrated hub if it works with us to support people in our community," chief executive Shirley-Anne Gardiner told Have you got a story? Contact reporter Maddison Leach at mleach@ Shirley-Anne Gardiner, chief executive at Momentum Mental Health. (Supplied) To create the hub, PHN is commissioning existing providers to deliver services through via an open market tender, meaning any existing providers could apply. The providers that are chosen to deliver services through the hub will remain funded by the PHN. Those that are not chosen and operate outside the hub "may need to seek alternative funding", according to a PHN press release. Under this new model, all of Momentum's current PHN funding would be redirected to the hub. "We would be left with a small amount of Queensland Health funding and $200,000 in fundraising a year," Gardiner said. "But we can't financially survive. We would have to shut because we can't fundraise $800,000 a year. It's not sustainable." Momentum's only avenue to receive ongoing PHN funding is if its application to deliver services through the hub is successful. Successful applicants were supposed to be notified in June, but the number of applications forced PHN to push the date back to late July. PHN told 9news it will not provide comment until the tender process is finalised. Momentum and other existing providers are currently operating on short-term funding provided by the PHN to "support safe client transitions". That funding has already been extended once and will run out at the end of the year. If Momentum has not secured ongoing funding either from the PHN as a hub provider or through alternative channel by then, Gardiner expects it will have to close its doors. "It's heartbreaking for us and we're really worried about our clients," she said. "We have people who have suicidal ideation, we have people with chronic mental health conditions, we have people that suffer from social anxiety or agoraphobia. "We have one woman who didn't leave her house for 20 years before she came to Momentum." Being forced to change mental health care providers can be challenging for vulnerable Australians, especially those who have already built trust with a specific provider. Gardiner fears that some clients will struggle with the transition to a new hub and some could fall through the cracks. In the past, several clients have experienced mental health crises during the one week Momentum closes over Christmas. Some have even had to go into acute mental health care because they cannot access the support they rely on. Gardiner fears that if Momentum is forced to close, some clients who already experience life-threatening mental health concerns could suffer. "If we're not around [or] and we can't work alongside them, we're going to see people make some stupid choices because we're not there to help them," she said. For now, Momentum's staff and clients are living "in limbo" waiting for the PHN to announce the outcome of the hub tender. If Momentum is not successful, staff will have to begin the process of looking for new jobs and clients will need to prepare to transition to new support services. It's a scary prospect and one Gardiner wishes she didn't have to consider. She's started a petition to secure ongoing funding so Momentum can continue providing vital services many Toowoomba locals rely on. "There's enough work for an integrated mental health hub and us. It shouldn't be us or them." national queensland mental health money government CONTACT US
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Dan's Daily: Playoff Domination; Montreal Pushing Crosby Rumors
And here we go again. The Sidney Crosby trade rumors are like Jason Voorhees or Michael Myers because they just won't die. Montreal is again embroiled in Crosby fervor. The Stanley Cup Playoffs had a couple of dominant performances Monday, leading to a pair of 3-1 series leads. And, PHN took readers on a trip through buyouts, investing wisely, and explaining why the Pittsburgh Penguins veterans should embrace leaving. The offseason has been interesting so far, eh? Advertisement We're efforting to find some of the coaches whom Penguins GM Kyle Dubas has spoken with, but most targets are employed and they have no benefit to admitting they've talked this early in the process. If they speak to the media now, they could be DQ'd. This is the time of year when I'm jealous of people who live structured, normal lives. When I woke up this morning to finish up the Daily, I could have sworn it was Sunday, but the lack of midnight dinners or snacks has allowed me to drop something close to 10 pounds in the last month. Maybe there is something to people blathering on about taking care of themselves. The goal this summer is to shed the 20-25 pounds I gained over the last two years as the travel schedule took its toll. For the first time in probably a year, I even have real food in my refrigerator, including … salad. What's becoming of me?! Of course, on my bike ride yesterday, I kept it healthy at Coney Island in New Castle. Hey, no fries make it a healthy snack. Pittsburgh Penguins Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Dave Molinari examined the potential of the Penguins to chase a few RFAs on the market, as well as the immediate satisfaction and lingering regret of buyouts, including (trigger warning) Jack Johnson. Advertisement I was a bit disappointed in the reader response to my column on Monday. It was well read and there were plenty of comments, but I felt too many readers focused on the low-hanging fruit and debated Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin, which isn't at the heart of the current issues. So, take a look–why the veteran players should embrace leaving the Penguins. Steelers Now: The rookie camp has wrapped. I'll tell you what–Alan Saunders does a heckuva job covering the Steelers. Since he's not done it for 50 years, he doesn't always get the credit, but he is as solid as they come. Here's the full wrap-up. Who looked good and who didn't at Steelers rookie camp. Pittsburgh Baseball Now: Another Paul Skenes start worthy of a win. Another pathetic offensive performance. Six innings pitched, one run allowed. The Mets walked off the Buccos, but here's everything you need to know in the Pirates recap. PBN+: The Q&A. Oh boy, I've waited for the public to really grab onto the small blurb in USA Today that essentially accused Bob Nutting of stealing the revenue sharing money, and the MLB Players Association is aware. For PHN+, SN+, and PBN+ subscribers, the bare-knuckled Pirates Q&A. Advertisement I really wish USA Today and Bob Nightengale had done a full story rather than a blurb in a column about the Mets. Yes, the Mets are New York, and everyone has long assumed that Nutting counts the money in creative ways, but every chance to turn up the heat on the odious accounting practices is a good thing. NHL Rumors, News, & NHN Sportsnet: Eric Francis did his best to accommodate his audience, but clearly stated the obvious. There will NOT … NOT… be a Sidney Crosby trade. However, Montreal is abuzz with the possibility, and Francis delved into what it would realistically take for the Montreal Canadiens to acquire Crosby if this dream scenario unfolded. Crosby is the one exception to my veterans leaving column. However, if he went to Montreal and was successful, there's no doubt the legend of Sid the Kid would grow exponentially. I surely wouldn't begrudge him, in fact, I'd root for him, but we know what he wants. The eye rolls when presented with the questions have said it all. Advertisement New Jersey Hockey Now: Let's go bold. James Nichols brings the big stick as he gets specific with a trio of restricted free agents that are attainable and could help the New Jersey Devils. Philly Hockey Now: The Soo Greyhounds center Brady Martin is suddenly a hot commodity. At the mid-term rankings, he was nowhere near the top five. Now, there's genuine debate about whether he could be gone long before the Penguins draft at No. 11. In fact, Will James examines whether the Flyers should take Caleb Desnoyers or Martin. It's going to be an interesting draft, and the Philadelphia Flyers have a good pick. Florida Hockey Now: The NHL has suspended the Panthers' minority owner, Doug Cifu, after he got into a spat with a Toronto fan on X. It got contentious when Israel and Hamas became part of the discussion. It's not the first social media trouble for the Florida Panthers owner. Vegas Hockey Now: It was a brutal beatdown. The desert has gone ice cold as the north winds have blown away hopes of a Stanley Cup. The Edmonton Oilers dominated Game 4, shutting out the Vegas Golden Knights. Here is the analysis and everything you need to know about the VGK loss. Advertisement The Carolina Hurricanes did about the same to the Washington Capitals. The Capitals fought back in the third period, but it was clearly the Hurricanes' game from start to finish. TSN: I think we're in the home stretch of the Team Canada Five sexual assault trial. Enduring seven grueling days of cross-examination is ridiculous, but–I'll be quite honest–for the first time, a defense lawyer made some headway in reshaping the narrative for her client. Here's the latest recap from Rick Westhead. I'm trying to remain very detached and objective when linking to the case. We will heavily censor comments because of the nature of the trial. Obviously, if I give an inch on this subject matter, lord knows what we'll see. Anything hockey is fair game, but this trial is a different type of story. Thanks in advance for keeping it between the guardrails. The post Dan's Daily: Playoff Domination; Montreal Pushing Crosby Rumors appeared first on Pittsburgh Hockey Now.
Hindustan Times
02-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Nurse finds grandma's 1965 Texas hospital booklet with strange post-delivery advice: ‘No car ride for 21 days'
A recent discovery made by a US nurse has sparked widespread amusement online. While going through her grandmother's belongings, Traci Clark found an old hospital discharge booklet from 1965, which she quickly shared with her followers on Instagram. The clip, which has since garnered over 1.2 million views, has left many questioning the surprising medical advice given to new mothers half a century ago. (Also read: 'Eerie green flames' come out of manhole after explosion in Texas college: 'It was freaky') In the video, Clark explains, 'We're going through my grandmother's stuff, and I just found her discharge instructions. She was in bed 327A.' The booklet, a three-page document, had been issued to her grandmother after giving birth in Houston, Texas. Clark reads aloud some of the instructions, which range from perplexing to downright bizarre. 'When the baby is 21 days old, you may take a car ride. How were they supposed to get to the hospital before that?' she asks, puzzled by the outdated advice. 'And then, I don't know what this is—118 days old, they may drive a car? Could they drive a car before that? This is so confusing.' Clark also points out another curious recommendation: 'At 21 days old, you may walk up and down the stairs. How was she supposed to get into her house before that? This is awful.' But what truly took the cake for Clark was the suggestion for physical activity. 'This is my favourite—special exercises: sleeping,' she said, laughing. Take a look here at the video: A post shared by Traci Clark RN, BSN, OCN, PHN (@poppielady) Clark's post has sparked a flood of comments, with people reflecting on how far medical advice has come in the last few decades. One user remarked, 'At least they emphasised rest, now they expect you to go back to work like nothing happened.' Another chimed in, 'This is 10x better than the current hospital instructions, which are: 'Come back if you die.'' (Also read: Who is Thomas J Henry? High-powered Texas lawyer vows to give away $1 million to strangers for his birthday) Many shared personal anecdotes, with one commenter writing, 'My mum was telling me that she stayed in the hospital for a week after I was born in 1965.' Another added, 'I was shocked to see how little guidance was given compared to what we have now.'
