June 15, 2009

Pharmacologic symptom management can improve the quality of life in patients with an advanced illness. Symptoms, such as pain and dyspnea, are often best controlled by treating the underlying cause, but any intervention should take into account the patient's preferences and…

The goals of treating chronic low back pain often change over time, shifting from the initial intent to cure to improving pain and function. Patients should receive advice about remaining active and about effective self-care options. Pharmacologic (e.g., acetaminophen…

The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association have issued an update of their guideline for the management of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Early recognition and prompt initiation of reperfusion therapy remain the cornerstone of management of…

Primary Care Bill Includes Steps to Address Physician Shortage, Income Disparity | Organizations Respond to Senate Finance Committee's Health Reform Options Paper | TransforMED Evaluators Present Initial Lessons from Demonstration Project | Stakeholders Pledge to Help Reduce…

The focus of most of modern Western medicine is to heal patients when they are sick. Recently, however, there has been a greater emphasis on improving the quality of life of patients when that is all that can be accomplished. The American Medical Association and the Robert Wood…

The World Health Organization's (WHO's) 2008 World Health Report critically assesses the way health care is organized, financed, and delivered, and it refocuses global attention on primary health care.1 The report, “Primary Health Care—Now More Than Ever,” was released on the…

Discovering the association between the alpha-1 antagonist tamsulosin (Flomax) and a new complication called intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) solved a troublesome mystery for cataract surgeons.1 Characterized by sudden intraoperative iris prolapse and pupil…

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for high blood pressure in adults 18 years and older.

What are the effects of topical and systemic treatments for scabies?

Case study: A.R. is a healthy 30-year-old man who recently obtained health insurance through his new job. His last physical examination was more than 10 years ago. Because you are a friend and a family physician, he asks you whether he should have his blood pressure checked.

Probiotics and rifaximin (Xifaxan) have been shown to reduce total number of flatus episodes and associated discomfort.

Photo Quiz presents readers with a clinical challenge based on a photograph or other image.

Risperidone does not alter the course of autistic disorder, but is effective for controlling irritability and other associated symptoms. Patients taking risperidone should be appropriately monitored for adverse effects, especially abnormal movements.

Irritable bowl syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder characterized by abdominal discomfort and altered bowel function. The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) performed a series of systematic reviews, and developed evidence-based recommendations for the management of IBS.

Palliative (PAL-ee-uh-tiv) care is a special type of medical care for people with a severe or complicated illness. It focuses on treating the body, mind, and spirit, and helps to support a patient and family's comfort and dignity. It also helps patients and their loved ones…

Chronic low back pain is when you have pain in your lower back for longer than three months. You should talk to your doctor about ways to cope with your back pain.