Doctor Column
Subdural Hematoma Hospitalizes Jimmy Carter. “What is It?”
December 5, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Former President Jimmy Carter was hospitalized and underwent surgery at Emory University Hospital in November, 2019 to relieve pressure in his brain. The 95 year old and 39th president of the U. S. suffered a head injury after falling which his doctors described as a subdural hematoma (SDH).
Floaters and Flashes of Light in Your Eye: “When Should You Worry?”
November 25, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
We recognize people and the world around us when light passes into the eye, travels across the vitreous material of the eye on its way to the retina. The vitreous is a clear, jelly-like substance that occupies about 80% of the space within the eye and is normally attached to the retina. The retina has light sensitive nerve cells in the back of the eye that relays signals to the brain so we can see.
Anabolic Steroids: “Bargain with the Devil?”
November 15, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Faust’s legend has been and continues to be reenacted everywhere in modern life. Sell your soul to the devil and Satan will quench your burning desire, in exchange for you being a slave to his every command. No country is out of reach and no person is exempt from its appeal.
‘Beware’ of Drug Reactions and Interactions
October 25, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
With every new drug on the market, there’s one more chance that you’ll suffer an unwanted reaction that ranges from mild to severe. However, such reactions are not limited to drugs. Food, herbs and supplements can be as dangerous as drugs.
Persistent Itching: A Misery Go-Round
October 15, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
“Coming up with the right diagnosis for constant itching is difficult, frustrating and maddening,” according to Cecilia.
E-cigarettes, Pulmonary Sickness and Death: U. S. vs. UK
October 5, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) on August 30, 2019 issued a health advisory warning the public and clinicians about severe pulmonary disease associated with using e-cigarette and vaping products.
“Afraid of Falling?” It’s Common, Costly and Preventable
September 25, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Recently, Shirley, a 75 year old neighbor rang my doorbell at approximately 9:30 p. m. and said, “I fell.” She was holding a handkerchief against the right side of her forehead and blood was streaming down the right side of her face.
Triggers of Nonallergic Rhinitis: “What Are They?”
September 15, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) is an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the inside of the nose. The blood vessels in the nose dilate causing nasal congestion and a clear, watery nasal discharge. This condition is primarily seen in adults and is not due to an allergy. It is separate and distinct from allergic rhinitis (AR) such as hay fever.
The Case for Taking Dietary Supplements
September 5, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Vitamin supplements are a goldmine for the manufacturers of these products. More than 30 billion dollars a year is forked over for these pills. The irony is that most people taking supplements follow good dietary habits and don’t need them. But are there situations that demand supplementation?
Black ‘Hairy’ Tongue
August 25, 2019
Joseph R. Anticaglia, MD
Many people regard the appearance of the tongue as an indicator of their general health. Imagine waking up in the morning, looking in the mirror and seeing your tongue resembling the photo below?
