Treating prostate cancer, Part IV: Surgery
The best candidates for prostate cancer surgery are younger men who are otherwise healthy and do not have other conditions or diseases that might shorten their life span.
The best candidates for prostate cancer surgery are younger men who are otherwise healthy and do not have other conditions or diseases that might shorten their life span.
Splitting pills is a sensible way to save money on medications, though certain pills are easier to split than others, and not all pills should be split.
Early studies have suggested that grape juice may provide some of the same heart-protective benefits as red wine, but much more research is needed.
Insomnia is a troubling condition, but it can be addressed through behavioral changes and by practicing better sleep habits. Medication may be helpful in the short term, but proper nutrition, regular exercise, and minimizing stress are preferable.
An abdominal aortic aneurysm can be dangerous if it grows beyond a certain size. A newer, less invasive procedure can correct the problem with less risk than open surgery.
Barrett’s esophagus occurs when cells lining the lower esophagus are replaced by intestinal cells brought up by acid reflux. A new technique uses radio waves from an electromagnetic coil to kill the affected cells while leaving healthy cells undamaged.
Most angioplasty procedures are performed through the femoral artery in the groin, but the radial artery in the wrist is also a viable access point, and may be slightly safer for some patients.
Fitness is important at every age. For seniors, regular exercise can improve or perhaps prolong life. An exercise program for someone over 70 should focus on cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, improving flexibility, and improving balance.
The FDA has taken issue with certain pharmacies that produce custom-compounded hormone therapy products, because some of them claim, without proof, that their products are safer or more effective than traditionally-produced hormones.
The erectile dysfunction drug sildenafil may improve sexual function in women who take antidepressants, but it does not boost sexual desire.