Latest news with #MedlinePlus
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Legendary Rocker, 78, Recovering After Emergency Heart Surgery
Robert Fripp is grateful that he's alive. Robert, best known as the guitarist and co-founder of King Crimson, gave an update on his life alongside his beloved wife, Toyah Wilcox. In a video posted to their YouTube channel on May 10, the prog rock icon said he'd suffered a heart attack 'but hadn't known it.' 'On Saturday, Apr. 6, I flew to Italy,' said Robert. He was scheduled to perform with 124 members of The Orchestra of Crafty Guitarists at Villa Sancelso in Castione della Presolana. But he could tell something was wrong. 'I'd been suffering what I considered to be acid reflux for a couple of weeks before,' he said. 'I had this in 2019, and though, 'oh, just a little acid reflux. I'd deal with this.' But on the Saturday morning I flew, it felt a little bit more.' Robert arranged a doctor's visit in Italy, but upon his arrival in Bergamo, his companions didn't take any chances. They took him straight to 'the leading cardiac hospital in Italy.' 'I was in A&E thinking, 'Oh, they're going to give me a prescription for acid reflux,'' said Robert, before the doctor gave him the news. ''You're supposed to have 10 of these, but you've got 500 of them,'' said Robert, likely referring to his troponin levels ('That's a measurement in your blood,' said Toyah). High troponin levels can indicate a heart attack, according to MedlinePlus. Toyah said her husband underwent five hours of surgery, intensive care, and then a second operation.'My husband has never had anything wrong with them,' said Tonyah. 'He's only had one stay in hospital when he was about 22. He's not experienced [a] hospital as perhaps many times as women have, especially at my age.' 'I'm so proud of you and so grateful to your team who kept us all informed,' she added, wiping away tears. After the surgeries, Robert still managed to make the gig and play with all of his "friends." The rock legend is now on medication for life, and his wife says he's 'getting used to the balance." A very "fortunate" Robert then advised everyone watching: 'If you think you have heartburn or acid reflux, really look into it. It might be something more.'
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Business Standard
08-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
World Ovarian Cancer Day 2025: Symptoms, risks, and how to protect yourself
Ovarian cancer, often termed the 'silent killer,' is notorious for its subtle and sneaky symptoms and late-stage diagnoses. Many women tend to overlook the symptoms, often mistaking them for common issues like bloating, hormonal fluctuations, or everyday fatigue. And so, it remains one of the most challenging gynaecological cancers worldwide. On this World Ovarian Cancer Day, May 8, know the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer before it's too late. What is ovarian cancer? Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the ovaries (organs that produce eggs) or fallopian tubes (channels connecting the ovaries to the uterus) begin to grow, mutate, and multiply uncontrollably, potentially forming tumours and spreading to other parts of the body. Who is at risk of developing ovarian cancer? According to the American Cancer Society, a leading cancer-fighting and research organisation, ovarian cancer affects women, especially those over 50, with most cases occurring after menopause. It is rare in women younger than 40. Women with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer are at a significantly higher risk. Inherited mutations in BReast CAncer 1 or 2 (BRCA1 or BRCA2) genes, as well as other genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome, are major risk factors, according to MedlinePlus, a body of the US health and human services department. Cleveland Clinic, a nonprofit academic medical centre based in Cleveland, Ohio, US, says that ovarian cancer is slightly more common in white women than in other racial groups. Being overweight, smoking, and having certain medical conditions like diabetes can also increase the risk, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the national public health agency of the US. How prevalent is ovarian cancer worldwide and in India? Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer among women all over the world, and the lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is approximately 1 in 78, according to a January 2025 paper published in the peer-reviewed journal eClinicalMedicine. According to World Cancer Research Fund, globally, ovarian cancer is the 18th most common cancer and the 8th most common in women. In 2022, there were 324,603 new cases. A study published in the Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics, a publication of Association of Radiation Oncologists of India, said that in India, the incidence rate of ovarian cancer is 5.08 per 100,000 women. Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer to watch for Early detection is crucial, yet challenging due to nonspecific symptoms. Key warning signs include: Persistent bloating Pelvic or abdominal pain Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly Frequent or urgent urination Fatigue Back pain Changes in bowel habits Unexplained weight loss If these symptoms occur frequently, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Prevention and lifestyle changes to reduce risk While there's no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer, experts recommend certain measures to reduce risk: Why World Ovarian Cancer Day is significant May 8 was established as World Ovarian Cancer Day in 2013 by a group of leaders from ovarian cancer advocacy organisations around the world, led by the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition. The day aims to raise awareness on the early signs, risk factors, and the importance of early detection, which can significantly improve survival rates. It mobilises healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities to improve access to screening, research, and treatment. Theme of World Ovarian Cancer Day 2025: 'No woman left behind' The theme of this year is 'No woman left behind'—focusing on educating people about ovarian cancer globally, especially in countries that are underdeveloped and underserved, and enabling the reach of effective screening and treatment.
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
'The White Lotus' characters taking lorazepam: What is it and why are they in danger by abusing it?
Those watching HBO's "The White Lotus" may be familiar with matriarch Victoria's long southern drawl, sweeping silk robes — and her affinity for lorazepam. Searches for the anti-anxiety drug spiked, according to Google Trends, following an episode of the hit show that heavily featured its use — or, more accurately, its abuse. Victoria Ratliff, played by actress Parker Posey, is seen tossing back a pill or two at all hours of the day, citing its use for anxiety when questioned by her family. Children's Adhd Risk Linked To Mothers' Use Of Common Otc Pain Reliever But when Ratliff finds herself suddenly without her medication, she utters the memorable quote: "I don't even have my lorazepam. I'm going to have to drink myself to sleep." The drug, which is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines, works by slowing activity in the brain to allow for relaxation, according to MedlinePlus. Read On The Fox News App Lorazepam is used to relieve anxiety as well as insomnia caused by temporary situational stress (or, in Mrs. Ratliff's case, a stressful family vacation). The medication is also sometimes used in hospital environments to help patients relax and fall asleep prior to surgery, according to Healthline. It may also be used to treat certain types of seizures. Some side effects of lorazepam include dizziness, confusion, memory issues and slowed breathing, especially when combined with other sedating substances, such as alcohol or opioids, according to Chelsie Rohrscheib, a neuroscientist and sleep specialist at Wesper in New York. "This class of drug is extremely habit-forming, which means a patient taking it may become dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms once it's discontinued," she told Fox News Digital. Just 1 In 10 Back Pain Treatments Work, Study Says — What To Do Instead Lorazepam has also been found to negatively impact mood and may raise a patient's risk of depression, Rohrscheib warned. "There is also clinical evidence that long-term use of these medications is associated with certain diseases, like neurodegenerative disorders, such as dementia," she added. Some studies have shown that long-term use of the medication can result in memory loss or difficulty forming new memories, alongside impairments in problem-solving, focus and attention. Lorazepam may increase the risk of serious or life-threatening breathing problems, sedation or coma if combined with certain medications, according to MedlinePlus. Medications that may interact with lorazepam include cough medicines or pain medicines that contain opiates, such as codeine, hydrocodone, morphine, oxycodone or tramadol. While the characters in "The White Lotus" appear to use lorazepam predominantly as a sleep aid, it's important to note that their on-screen use mixed with alcohol can be quite dangerous. Heat Exposure Linked To Better Sleep, Experts Say — Here's Why In the show, alcohol of every variety is flowing, with Mrs. Ratliff swigging glasses of wine in almost all of her scenes. Experts advise against taking lorazepam after drinking alcohol, as the combination can lead to breathing issues or difficulty waking. The drug cannot be purchased over the counter. In the show, Mrs. Ratliff refilled her prescription immediately before vacation. Those interested in taking lorazepam should see a medical professional to determine whether it is suitable and safe and to obtain a prescription. Patients suffering from insomnia and other sleep issues should try making lifestyle changes and cognitive behavioral therapy before being placed on lorazepam, Rohrscheib advised. "Doctors may consider alternatives, such as over-the-counter, non-benzodiazepine medications or supplements that promote sleep, such as melatonin," she told Fox News Digital. Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter "Additionally, it's critical to rule out other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, which can mimic insomnia, as benzodiazepines may make sleep apnea worse." People can improve their quality of rest by adopting several good sleep hygiene practices, Clémence Cavaillès, PhD, a researcher at University of California San Francisco, previously told Fox News Digital. "They can start by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day," he said. "Creating an ideal sleep environment — keeping the bedroom dark, quiet and at a cool temperature — also helps." Regular exercise and exposure to natural sunlight can also improve sleep quality. For more Health articles, visit Cavaillès also suggested avoiding screens and blue light, as well as stimulants like caffeine and alcohol. "Incorporating relaxation techniques before bed, such as deep breathing or meditation, can also help prepare the body for sleep," the researcher added. Fox News Digital reached out to the maker of a branded lorazepam medication requesting article source: 'The White Lotus' characters taking lorazepam: What is it and why are they in danger by abusing it?
Fox News
31-03-2025
- Health
- Fox News
'The White Lotus' characters taking lorazepam: What is it and why are they in danger by abusing it?
Those watching HBO's "The White Lotus" may be familiar with matriarch Victoria's long southern drawl, sweeping silk robes — and her affinity for lorazepam. Searches for the anti-anxiety drug spiked, according to Google Trends, following an episode of the hit show that heavily featured its use — or, more accurately, its abuse. Victoria Ratliff, played by actress Parker Posey, is seen tossing back a pill or two at all hours of the day, citing its use for anxiety when questioned by her family. But when Ratliff finds herself suddenly without her medication, she utters the memorable quote: "I don't even have my lorazepam. I'm going to have to drink myself to sleep." The drug, which is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines, works by slowing activity in the brain to allow for relaxation, according to MedlinePlus. Lorazepam is used to relieve anxiety as well as insomnia caused by temporary situational stress (or, in Mrs. Ratliff's case, a stressful family vacation). The medication is also sometimes used in hospital environments to help patients relax and fall asleep prior to surgery, according to Healthline. It may also be used to treat certain types of seizures. Some side effects of lorazepam include dizziness, confusion, memory issues and slowed breathing, especially when combined with other sedating substances, such as alcohol or opioids, according to Chelsie Rohrscheib, a neuroscientist and sleep specialist at Wesper in New York. "This class of drug is extremely habit-forming, which means a patient taking it may become dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms once it's discontinued," she told Fox News Digital. Lorazepam has also been found to negatively impact mood and may raise a patient's risk of depression, Rohrscheib warned. "There is also clinical evidence that long-term use of these medications is associated with certain diseases, like neurodegenerative disorders, such as dementia," she added. Some studies have shown that long-term use of the medication can result in memory loss or difficulty forming new memories, alongside impairments in problem-solving, focus and attention. Lorazepam may increase the risk of serious or life-threatening breathing problems, sedation or coma if combined with certain medications, according to MedlinePlus. "This class of drug is extremely habit-forming, which means a patient taking it may become dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms once it's discontinued." Medications that may interact with lorazepam include cough medicines or pain medicines that contain opiates, such as codeine, hydrocodone, morphine, oxycodone or tramadol. While the characters in "The White Lotus" appear to use lorazepam predominantly as a sleep aid, it's important to note that their on-screen use mixed with alcohol can be quite dangerous. In the show, alcohol of every variety is flowing, with Mrs. Ratliff swigging glasses of wine in almost all of her scenes. Experts advise against taking lorazepam after drinking alcohol, as the combination can lead to breathing issues or difficulty waking. The drug cannot be purchased over the counter. In the show, Mrs. Ratliff refilled her prescription immediately before vacation. Those interested in taking lorazepam should see a medical professional to determine whether it is suitable and safe and to obtain a prescription. Patients suffering from insomnia and other sleep issues should try making lifestyle changes and cognitive behavioral therapy before being placed on lorazepam, Rohrscheib advised. "Doctors may consider alternatives, such as over-the-counter, non-benzodiazepine medications or supplements that promote sleep, such as melatonin," she told Fox News Digital. "Additionally, it's critical to rule out other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, which can mimic insomnia, as benzodiazepines may make sleep apnea worse." People can improve their quality of rest by adopting several good sleep hygiene practices, Clémence Cavaillès, PhD, a researcher at University of California San Francisco, previously told Fox News Digital. "They can start by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day," he said. "Creating an ideal sleep environment — keeping the bedroom dark, quiet and at a cool temperature — also helps." Regular exercise and exposure to natural sunlight can also improve sleep quality. For more Health articles, visit Cavaillès also suggested avoiding screens and blue light, as well as stimulants like caffeine and alcohol. "Incorporating relaxation techniques before bed, such as deep breathing or meditation, can also help prepare the body for sleep," the researcher added. Fox News Digital reached out to the maker of a branded lorazepam medication requesting comment.
