In the age of the internet, many feel a great relief in having access to any information they want anytime and anywhere. People’s confidence in the internet has become so great that it sometimes causes more harm than good. When it comes to symptoms, many consult the internet before a doctor, and if the case is vice versa, many would still take Mr. Google’s advice over the doctor’s prescription. While researching on the internet for references is practiced even by doctors, patients should always keep in mind that doctors do not take the internet as a tool to diagnose an illness – and neither should you!
The Dangers of Online Diagnosis
MP3 Players Pose Threat of Hearing Loss
New research conducted within the European Union suggests that the use of personal music players such as iPods and other MP3 players could result in permanent hearing damage for millions of Europeans. The Washington Post reports that researchers from the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks have determined that individuals who listen to music with personal MP3 players at loud volumes for five hours a week are exposed to more damaging noise levels than workers in even the noisiest shop floors and factories in Europe.
Research Confirms Vioxx Increases Risk of Heart Attack
New research from a long-term study of individuals taking the arthritis drug known as Vioxx offers confirmation that the drug increases the risk of stroke or heart attack by 50%. Reported on Reuters.com, the research suggests that other arthritis drugs of the same class (Cox-2 Inhibitors) may pose the same risks of heart attack and stroke.
Federal Report Criticizes US Nursing Homes
A recent report published by the New York Times found that nearly 95% of American nursing homes had health or safety standard violations last year. Interestingly, nonprofit nursing homes were found to have fewer violations than for-profit institutions.
Are Energy Drinks Dangerous?
The concept of the “energy drink” is a relatively new phenomenon. Brands such as Red Bull, Venom, Rockstar and Monster began appearing in the last few decades and have become extremely popular among young people. But new research by John’s Hopkins presents a stark warning about these so-called “high energy” soft drinks: many of them contain levels of caffeine high enough to endanger your physical health.
Comments