Latest news with #medical
Wall Street Journal
11 hours ago
- General
- Wall Street Journal
I'm 88 and Prospering Thanks to Routine PSAs
Regarding Allysia Finley's column 'Biden's Prostate Cancer and the Tyranny of the Experts' (Life Science, May 27): When I was 83, I was worked up thoroughly for a sudden rise in my routine PSA. Regular digital exam and special biopsy led to diagnosis of invasive but confined prostate cancer. Even though I had no symptoms of cancer, and knowing the arguments, I elected to have anti-gonadal and radiotherapy treatments. Whatever complications ensued were managed, and I have enjoyed more than five normal years with no PSA elevation. Without this intervention—and my defying the Preventive Services Task Force guidance—I might have been in the former president's present medical situation. I am still working as a physician, feeling useful and enjoying all there is to enjoy with the functional imperfections of being 88. One swallow doesn't make a summer but one contrary example can defy a rule.
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE An NFL legend sexually tormented me for years. He did it on the field, in the tunnel and even on TV... but I won't be silenced
Back in 2013, Jenn Sterger went in search of another opinion. Yet another opinion. 'I was constantly in and out of doctors' offices with these rare, chronic illnesses,' the former NFL reporter tells the Daily Mail. No one could quite diagnose the problem.
WebMD
2 days ago
- General
- WebMD
Cortisol Belly: Causes and Symptoms
"Cortisol belly" is a popular term used to describe weight gain mostly around your belly area, or abdomen. Sometimes it's called "hormonal belly." It's not a medical term or diagnosis, but it could be a sign of something else happening in your body. Why Does Cortisol Belly Happen? The term "cortisol belly" describes increased levels of the hormone cortisol playing a role in where and how much fat you gain. But different things play a role in weight gain. The cause of weight gain around your belly isn't as straightforward as popular science makes it sound. Causes of weight gain Different things affect your weight, including your diet, the amount of exercise you get, medical conditions you have, your quality and quantity of sleep, and your genetics. Another key factor in fat buildup is hormones present in your system. These include sex hormones (androgen, progesterone, and estrogen), insulin, thyroid hormones, and cortisol. The levels of these different hormones can affect where and how much fat gathers in your body. For example, premenopausal women tend to have a higher share of fat in their thighs, hips, and buttocks. Women who've gone through menopause and lost much of their estrogen may have more fat in their abdomen and upper body. Weight gain at your abdomen can be just below your skin (subcutaneous) or deep inside your body around your organs (visceral). Too much visceral fat increases your risk of certain health conditions such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart disease. Cortisol and Weight Gain Cortisol is a hormone doctors sometimes call the "stress hormone." Your adrenal glands make it, along with the hormone adrenaline. Both hormones play a role in your response to stress. Adrenaline is your "fight or flight" response that allows you to have energy to fight or run away from a threat. Cortisol follows up your adrenaline rush to help you stay alert for longer. "The idea is that chronic stress leads to high cortisol levels that drives excess abdominal fat accumulation, but this concept is not supported by evidence," says Rexford Ahima, MD, PhD, director of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism at Johns Hopkins Medicine. But there are medical conditions that cause abnormally high cortisol levels, and one side effect of these conditions is weight gain around the belly. Cushing syndrome This condition causes your body to make too much cortisol. You may get it because of a tumor, or as a side effect of certain medications. One of the most common symptoms of Cushing syndrome is weight gain in your belly (while your legs and arms stay slim). If Cushing syndrome is the cause of your belly weight gain, you may also have: Weight gain in the face (sometimes called moon face) A fatty lump between the shoulders (sometimes called a buffalo hump) Pink or purple stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts, and underarms Thin, frail skin that bruises easily Slow wound healing Acne Metabolic syndrome Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of symptoms that increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, or strokes. People with metabolic syndrome typically have apple-shaped bodies. That means you carry more fat in your abdomen. Signs of metabolic syndrome include: A waist circumference of more than 35 inches for people assigned female at birth (AFAB) and more than 40 inches for people assigned male at birth (AMAB) High blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or higher Elevated blood sugar levels High triglyceride levels (more than 150 mg/dL) Low HDL cholesterol (less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women). A doctor can make a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome when you have three or more of these signs. "Metabolic syndrome is more common in older people, post-menopausal women, and is associated with insulin resistance and chronic inflammation," says Ahima. "However, we don't fully understand what specifically causes metabolic syndrome. Genetic factors, excessive intake of high-caloric, low-quality ultra-processed foods, inadequate sleep, low physical activity, and psychosocial stress contribute." What does cortisol belly look like? "Cortisol belly" typically refers to weight gain that's mostly in the belly and less so in other places. If your weight gain in your belly is due to Cushing syndrome, you'll notice that your arms and legs stay slim as your belly gains fat. How to Get Rid of Cortisol Belly Lowering your stress levels (and therefore your cortisol levels) won't necessarily make you lose belly weight. But it's a healthy practice that improves overall health that may include weight loss. Try these practices: Get regular exercise. Do something that you enjoy so you look forward to it and make time in your schedule for it. Ahima recommends getting at least 8,000 steps a day and including resistance exercises into your weekly routine. And don't overdo it – too much exercise without enough downtime for rest between workout sessions can make cortisol go up. Prioritize sleep. Tweak your sleep habits so that you're getting quality ZZZs each night. Stick to a consistent sleep/wake schedule, aim for eight hours a night, and keep your room cool, dark, and distraction-free for restful slumber. Promote body and mind relaxation. Certain relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, tai chi, and mindfulness help regulate your nervous system and send your body signals to relax, lowering stress. Go outside. Studies show that just 20 minutes in green spaces outdoors such as parks or woods can significantly lower your cortisol levels. Don't smoke. Along with causing overall health harm, some research shows that smoking can raise your cortisol levels and disrupt healthy sleep. Cultivate relationships. Social interaction with people who bring you a sense of calm and contentment can help improve your emotional well-being and mood. If your belly fat is being caused by a medical condition such as Cushing syndrome, your doctor can prescribe treatment that will reduce your cortisol and ease symptoms. "Cortisol blockers can decrease cortisol levels in patients with Cushing syndrome who may not be able to have surgery," says Ahima. "However, there is no proven evidence supporting the use of cortisol blockers as dietary supplements in common forms of obesity." In fact, Ahima warns against companies that claim to be able to cause weight loss by controlling cortisol. These treatments are specific to these conditions – you shouldn't try them to reduce belly fat if you don't have a medical diagnosis. "While psychosocial stress and cortisol have been linked to central obesity in the media, research findings do not support a cause-and-effect relationship between cortisol and central fat accumulation in most people with obesity," he says. Is There a Detox Diet for Cortisol Belly? There's no specific "cortisol belly diet," but there are diet patterns you can adopt for nutritious eating to help reduce inflammation and slow cortisol production in your body. Research shows that certain types of foods can help lower cortisol, such as: Foods high in magnesium: avocados, bananas, dark chocolate, broccoli, and spinach Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids: fish (anchovies, salmon, tuna), chia seeds, flax seeds, and walnuts Foods that promote a healthy gut: Greek yogurt, kombucha, and sauerkraut A diet high in high-sugar foods and drinks, alcohol, and caffeine can spike your cortisol levels. A Mediterranean diet is a smart template for healthy, low-inflammation eating, and it may lower your cortisol levels. A Mediterranean diet focuses on healthy fats and plant-based eating: Plenty of fruits and vegetables Beans, lentils and nuts Whole grains, like whole-wheat bread and brown rice Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) as your primary cooking and dressing oil Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids Cheese and yogurt in moderate amounts Protein from chicken, turkey, fish, and beans Little to no red meat Little to no sweets, sugary drinks, or butter Wine only in moderation (or not at all) Are there cortisol belly supplements? Supplements aren't a cure-all for stress and cortisol levels. "You can get all of the vitamins and minerals you need from healthy food," says Ahima. 'There are no proven supplements to reduce 'cortisol belly.' " One study on stress levels in health care workers suggested there are some herbs and supplements that may lower cortisol. (This doesn't mean they will promote weight loss.) These include: Ashwagandha Rhodiola Lemon balm Chamomile Keep in mind that more research needs to be done before any of these herbs could be recommended. You should always talk to your doctor before trying any herbs or supplements. Takeaways "Cortisol belly" is a non-medical term some people use to describe weight gain in the abdomen. The idea is that weight gain is linked to high cortisol levels, often due to chronic stress. But there's little scientific evidence that cortisol is a primary cause of belly fat in most people. Abdominal fat can result from many things, including diet, stress-eating, genetics, hormone levels, sleep quality, and medical conditions like Cushing syndrome. Healthy weight loss generally involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, getting enough sleep, stress reduction, and avoiding smoking and too much alcohol. Cortisol Belly FAQs What does "cortisol face" look like? "Cortisol face" is a popular term on social media platforms that is used as a description of a swollen, puffy face. There's a condition called moon face (moon facies) that some people call cortisol face. Moon face is a buildup of fat deposits in the sides of your face that causes severe swelling. You can get this when you use corticosteroids, or from medical conditions such as Cushing syndrome or hypothyroidism. If this happens to you, fat deposits on the side of your skull can make your face so round you can't see your ears from the front.
Geek Girl Authority
3 days ago
- Business
- Geek Girl Authority
Botulinum Toxin Buy Online: Reliable Sources for Aesthetic and Medical Use
Aging skin doesn't have to mean deep wrinkles. More people now choose botulinum toxin to buy online options to smooth facial expression lines and reduce dynamic wrinkles without lengthy clinic visits. Wrinkle-relaxing injections have become one of the most common cosmetic treatments around the world. From treating glabellar lines to softening crow's feet, the results often last up to six months. With proper technique, botulinum toxin injections target facial muscles that crease the skin when contracting. The outcome? A smoother look without freezing your natural expression. What the Toxin Actually Does Botulinum toxins work by blocking nerve signals to specific muscles. Without those signals, the targeted muscles relax temporarily. Facial wrinkles fade as a result, especially in areas like the glabellar region and under the eyes. The product doesn't fill the skin like dermal fillers; it pauses the cause of the crease. Botulinum toxin type A is the most commonly used form. Sourced from clostridium botulinum, the purified protein is carefully prepared with human albumin and sodium chloride to stabilize it. The treatment works for cosmetic purposes and therapeutic purposes alike. Applications Go Beyond Aesthetics Most people think of botulinum toxin as a wrinkle treatment. But the medical conditions it treats go far beyond that. It has long been used for cervical dystonia, muscle spasms, and symptoms of neuromuscular disorders. Those living with overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, or chronic migraines often find relief with the same injections used to smooth frown lines. Excessive sweating is another condition that responds well to the toxin. Even cerebral palsy-related tightness and stiffness in muscles may be addressed using controlled doses. The range of applications continues to expand in medical practice. Buying Online—How Safe Is It? The phrase 'botulinum toxin buy online' raises eyebrows. It should. There's a big difference between sourcing from a reliable supplier and clicking random ads promising cheap injections. Medical professionals looking to buy botox online or purchase botulinum toxin for clinic use should always check for FDA-approved products. Patient safety depends on it. Labels, dosage instructions, and cold-chain delivery methods must be verified before even opening the package. Purchasing from a certified distributor reduces the risks. Adverse reactions are more likely when the origin is unclear or the storage is questionable. Dosage, Storage, and Use Precision is everything. Even a slight error in dosage may lead to unwanted effects, such as swelling, difficulty swallowing, or muscle weakness beyond the intended area. For cosmetic applications, the toxin is injected into targeted muscles like those responsible for frown lines, glabellar lines, or crow's feet. For therapeutic purposes, it might be delivered deeper, depending on the condition. Experienced hands make all the difference. Storage plays a big role too. The toxin must stay cold and be used within a specific time after dilution. Any lapse reduces its effectiveness or introduces risk. Why Professionals Trust Wholesale Channels Wholesale prices attract buyers looking to save. But saving money should never come at the cost of safety. Reputable suppliers serving medical professionals offer more than just good rates. They follow strict handling standards, use proper packaging, and only sell approved formulations. Most will provide proof of batch testing and include detailed ingredient lists like human albumin and sodium chloride. Professional clinics avoid cut-rate sellers who make big promises with no credentials. Cheap toxins from unverified sources carry serious side effects. It's not worth it. Wrinkles Fade, But Standards Shouldn't Whether it's used to treat glabellar lines or help patients with chronic migraines, the safety protocols remain the same. Every vial should be traceable. Every treatment should be backed by science. No matter how common cosmetic treatments become, only licensed professionals should administer botulinum toxin injections. They're trained to understand facial muscles, manage symptoms, and identify serious side effects early. There's more to it than a syringe and a mirror. Demand for Online Access Keeps Growing Many professionals now choose to streamline their purchasing process. Having a reliable supplier allows clinics to stock the toxin without interruption. Online access also improves delivery to rural or smaller clinics that might not have local distributors. Still, each purchase should be verified. Every patient deserves the same level of care—whether they're getting treated for facial wrinkles or dealing with neuromuscular disorders. The Takeaway More people are choosing targeted treatments to smooth lines and improve skin quality without surgery. Clinics and medical professionals prefer botulinum toxin buy online platforms that deliver regulated products safely. Whether treating under eye wrinkles or managing facial muscle tension, the result is often a more youthful appearance and reduced visible signs of aging. Frequently Asked Questions How does botulinum toxin reduce under eye wrinkles? It relaxes the muscles responsible for creasing the skin, helping smooth under eye wrinkles effectively. Will botulinum toxin help improve visible signs of aging? Yes, it softens lines and facial folds, reducing the most visible signs of skin aging. Will the treatment result in a more youthful appearance? When administered properly, botulinum toxin injections soften wrinkles and refresh facial expression, creating a more youthful appearance. Is it safe to go for botulinum toxin buy online options? It is safe when purchasing from a verified supplier with FDA-approved products for licensed medical professionals. POKER FACE Recap: (S02E06) Sloppy Joseph RELATED: Read our recap of the previous Poker Face episode, 'Hometown Hero'
Washington Post
3 days ago
- Health
- Washington Post
Would you be able to recognize signs of a stroke?
You're reading The Checkup With Dr. Wen, a newsletter on how to navigate medical and public health challenges. Click here to get the full newsletter in your inbox, including answers to reader questions and a summary of new scientific research. Recently, I saw a patient who was recovering from a stroke. She told me she was having breakfast when she realized something was wrong. She kept dropping her spoon because her fingers could no longer grasp it. She took a drink of her coffee and felt liquid dribbling down her chin. When she looked in the mirror, one side of her face sagged.
