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Blog
Day 3 - May 14: Shining a Light on Maternal Mental Health.
Mental Health Challenges
Live Your Best Life
Shedding Light on A Complex Illness
Birth Injuries In Newborns
Giving Back To Those In Need
Self-measured blood pressure (SMBP) benefits for patients with Medicaid: Michigan
Social determinants of health such as where we live, learn, and work along with our age, socio-economics status, and race, have a major impact on our well-being. These factors may limit access to resources and create barriers to health care. Programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) exist to help improve quality of life for people with disabilities who also have limited income and resources. The SSI program provides critical financial assistance and access to healthcare through Medicaid and other federally assisted programs like SNAP. These payments help people pay for necessities like rent, food, clothing, and medicine. SSI is available to eligible adults and children with disabilities who have income and resources below specific financial limits. SSI payments are also made to adults aged 65 and older without disabilities who meet the financial qualifications. For additional information about the Supplemental Security Income program, visit www.ssa.gov . To help someone apply for benefits, start the process online or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources. Who can get SSI Adults and children might be eligible for SSI if they have: Little or no income, and Little or no resources, and A disability, blindness, or are age 65 or older. How much you could get Your monthly payment depends on your income, living situation, things you own, and other factors. Report changes to your income, resources, and living situation Each month, you must report your wages, other income, and changes to your resources or living arrangements. Programs to get more help while on SSI Explore programs, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid, that help you save money and take care of basic needs while on SSI. Reference Office Of Minority Health
Secondary Raynaud’s is a medical condition that affects the blood vessels in the extremities, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. In contrast to primary Raynaud’s, it is a more severe form of Raynaud’s phenomenon and is often associated with an underlying medical condition. While primary Raynaud’s has no apparent cause, the secondary form is usually a symptom of a more serious health issue. This article will explore the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for secondary Raynaud’s. Causes: Secondary Raynaud’s can be caused by various medical conditions that affect the blood vessels or the body’s ability to regulate blood flow. Some of the common causes include: Connective tissue disorders: Conditions such as systemic sclerosis (aka scleroderma), lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to secondary Raynaud’s. These disorders cause inflammation and damage to the blood vessels, resulting in decreased blood flow to the extremities. Vascular diseases: Conditions like atherosclerosis, vasculitis, and Buerger’s disease can cause secondary Raynaud’s by narrowing the blood vessels and reducing blood flow. Medications: Certain drugs, such as beta-blockers, migraine medications, and chemotherapy drugs, have been linked to secondary Raynaud’s. Occupational factors: Exposure to occupational hazards, such as vibrating tools or working in cold environments, can trigger secondary Raynaud’s. Diagnosis: Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and various tests. The doctor will inquire about symptoms, such as the color changes in the fingers or toes, pain, or numbness during cold exposure or stress. The physical examination will focus on evaluating blood flow and checking for any signs of underlying conditions. Additional tests may include: Blood tests: These can help detect underlying autoimmune disorders or other conditions that may be causing secondary Raynaud’s. Nailfold capillaroscopy: This non-invasive test involves examining the small blood vessels at the base of the fingernail under a microscope. It can help identify any abnormalities in the blood vessels. Cold stimulation test: During this test, the doctor will expose the hands or feet to cold temperatures and monitor the response of the blood vessels. This can help differentiate between primary vs. secondary, as a longer recovery time is associated with more severe symptoms and more likely indicates the secondary form. A patient’s age, along with the results of the above tests, will be used to guide the diagnosis process. Treatment: The primary goal of treating secondary Raynaud’s is to manage the primary medical condition and alleviate symptoms. Treatment options may include: Medications: Calcium channel blockers, such as nifedipine or amlodipine, are commonly prescribed to relax and widen the blood vessels, improving blood flow. Other medications, such as prostaglandins or nitroglycerin ointment, may be used in severe cases. Treating the underlying condition: Managing the underlying condition, such as systemic sclerosis or lupus, can help alleviate secondary Raynaud’s symptoms. This may involve immunosuppressive medications, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or other targeted therapies. Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding triggers such as cold temperatures or stress can minimize episodes of Raynaud’s (either form). Wearing warm clothing, using hand and foot warmers, and practicing stress-reducing techniques can also help manage symptoms. Occupational adjustments: For individuals with secondary Raynaud’s triggered by occupational factors, making adjustments to work environments or using protective measures, such as heated gloves or vibration-absorbing tools, may be necessary. In conclusion, secondary Raynaud’s is a more severe form of Raynaud’s phenomenon that is typically associated with an underlying medical condition. It is crucial to diagnose and treat the primary cause to effectively manage the symptoms associated with this disorder. With proper medical care, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate treatment, individuals with secondary Raynaud’s can experience improved blood flow and a reduction in symptoms. Reference Secondary Raynaud’s: Its Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment - Raynaud's Association (raynauds.org)
Approximately 20 percent of people with lupus also have secondary Sjogren’s syndrome, a condition in which the tear glands do not produce sufficient tears to lubricate and nourish the eyes; the other moisture-producing glands are similarly affected. (Primary Sjogren’s syndrome is a systemic disease that, like lupus, can affect many parts of the body.) Typical symptoms are irritated, gritty, scratchy, or burning eyes, a feeling of something in the eyes, excess watering, and blurred vision. Advanced cases of dry eyes may result in damage to the front surface of the eye and impaired vision. The dry eye that is seen in lupus cannot be distinguished from other dry eye conditions. I recently came across some valuable information provided by Drugwatch regarding eye lubricants for dry eyes. Did you know that EzriCare and Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears EzriCare Artificial Tears is a brand of eye lubricant used to relieve or protect against dry, irritated eyes. In February 2023, Global Pharma Healthcare recalled EzriCare and Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears because of potential bacterial contamination that could cause eye infections and vision loss. What Are EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears? EzriCare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears are two brands of eye washes and lubricants made with the active ingredient carboxymethylcellulose sodium. It’s also called an ocular or ophthalmic lubricant. Carboxymethylcellulose sodium is used in several other brands of eye drops and artificial tears. EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears each contain 10 mg in 1 ml of the active ingredient. EzriCare Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops are an over-the-counter product and you do not need a prescription to use them. Inactive ingredients in EzriCare Artificial Tears: Boric acid Calcium chloride dihydrate Magnesium chloride Potassium chloride Sodium chloride Sodium chlorite Sodium hydroxide Water for injection India-based Global Pharma Healthcare LLC manufactured EzriCare Artificial Tears, according to an EzriCare statement . Aru Pharma Inc. designed, formulated and imported the product into the U.S. EzriCare’s only role was to create the label and market the eye drops to its U.S. customers, according to the company’s statement. EzriCare Artificial Tears side effects include eye pain, changes in vision, itchy eyes, redness and irritation. If these symptoms get worse or continue for more than 72 hours, seek medical attention. EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears Uses People use EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears to relieve eye dryness. It may also help protect eyes from further irritation. These artificial tears may also treat discomfort from minor irritations of the eye from exposure to sun or wind. Your doctor may recommend EzriCare Artificial Tears for other uses not on the label. According to dosage information, people should use one or two drops in the affected eye as needed. How Effective Are EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears? Studies have shown the active ingredient in EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears is effective in relieving mild to moderate dry eye. But people with more severe dry eyes may have to use a lubricating gel or ointment, which has a thicker formula. No single brand is effective for everyone, and people may have to try more than one brand. In clinical trial results published in BMC Ophthalmology, researchers found that carboxymethylcellulose sodium was effective in relieving dry eye in patients who had cataract surgery. A November 2022 study published in Clinical Ophthalmology found that combining carboxymethylcellulose and hyaluronic acid was more effective than carboxymethylcellulose alone for treating dry eye. EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears Consumer Warnings On Feb. 2, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers to stop using EzriCare and Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears immediately because of the risk of bacterial eye infections. Global Pharma Healthcare issued a recall for EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma Artificial tears, another brand the company manufactures. Starting in May 2022, the CDC began investigating an outbreak of an extensively drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa linked to EzriCare Artificial Tears. As of May 15, 2023, the CDC had identified 81 patients in 18 states infected with a rare type of drug-resistant bacteria. FACT The bacteria responsible for the outbreak, carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa with Verona integron-mediated metallo-β-lactamase and Guiana extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (VIM-GES-CRPA), had never been seen in the U.S. prior to this incident. Source: CDC Most of the infected patients used artificial tears, and EzriCare Artificial Tears was the most reported brand. So far, three people have died and eight have reported vision loss. Immediately after the recall, people who suffered infections filed EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears lawsuits and class actions. At the end of February 2023, Global Pharma also issued a recall for Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment. Alternatives to EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears Eye Drops Alternatives to EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears include other brands of over-the-counter artificial tears that may contain carboxymethylcellulose sodium or another type of active ingredient. So far, only EzriCare and Delsam Pharma brands have been recalled because of the risk of eye infections and vision loss. Alternatives to Ezricare and Delsam Artificial Tears include: Blink-N-Clean Lens Drops HydraSense Night Therapy Optase Dry Eye Intense Drops Refresh Optive Mega-3 Lubricant Refresh Plus Preservative-Free Soothe XP Systane Complete Preservative-Free Systane Ultra Preservative-Free Talk to your medical provider if you are unsure of which brand to use. They can recommend an alternative to EzriCare Artificial Tears or suggest another dry eye treatment. If you switch eye drops and suffer any side effects, make sure to tell your medical provider right away so they can recommend another option. Drugwatch works with medical and legal experts as well as patients and advocates to provide accurate, trustworthy and current information about prescription drug side effects, medical device complications and related lawsuits. Their team members have several years of medical and legal research experience and are passionate about advocating for people injured by the negligence of corporations. Reference EzriCare and Delsam Artificial Tears | Are They Safe to Use? (drugwatch.com)