Health Notes: A look at the latest medical studies and trends
Back to basics for kids' coughs
Drug companies voluntarily withdrew over-the-counter cough and cold medicines for children younger than 2, so parents can go back to tried and true remedies for kids'colds. Because of warnings from federal regulators and private doctors about potential health risks, the companies pulled many brands, including Tylenol, Little Colds and Triaminic. Children's coughs can be from a cold, or could be from reflux, asthma, sinus infection or allergies. Parents should discuss a persistent cough with their pediatrician. But for common colds, increasing fluids and using a humidifier in the room may be the answer for this winter season.
Treat minor strokes quickly
According to a recent study in England, patients who receive treatment for a minor stroke within 24 hours reduce their risk of a second stroke by 80% compared to those who wait three days or more to see a doctor. People may not realize mild and temporary symptoms of a minor stroke, such as slurred speech, arm weakness and dizziness, and may delay seeing a doctor. Researchers in Oxford, England, found in a study that even the mildest strokes need to be treated quickly with blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs to avoid a recurrence.
Study: Stored blood less effective
A recent study has shown stored blood may lack a chemical needed to deliver oxygen to tissues. Nitric oxide, which helps keep blood vessels open, begins breaking down as soon as blood goes into storage, two research teams reported in separate studies at Duke University. In recent years, doctors have become increasingly concerned about levels of heart attack and stroke in patients receiving transfusions and the new findings may help explain that.