Friday, September 30, 2016

Dr Richard John Beale From London examined our CM

Professor Dr Richard John Beale

Consultant Intensivist
Critical Care Unit
Bridge Hospital,
LONDON
UK

Dr Richard John Beale is Clinical Director of Perioperative, Critical care & Pain Services and Consultant Intensivist at Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, St Thomas’ Hospital, London.

Dr Beale received his Medical degree from St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, in 1984. He undertook his General Professional Training in Anaesthetics at Guy’s Hospital, London and was accordingly admitted to the Fellowship of the Royal College of Anaesthetists in 1990.

Having registered as a specialist in anaesthetics and intensive care, he held the posts of Clinical Research Fellow and Honorary Senior Registrar in Intensive Care at Guy’s Hospital, London, until 1992 when he embarked on his Higher Professional Training in Anaesthesia at the Royal London Hospital. He became a consultant in Intensive Care at Guy’s & St. Thomas Hospital Trust in 1995, becoming Head of Service for Adult Intensive Care Unit in 2000.  In March 2005 he was made Head of Perioperative, Critical Care and Pain Services (now Clinical Director) across the Trust and continues to hold this post.

He has acted as principle investigator in a large number of multicentre research studies in the fields of sepsis, ARDS and clinical nutrition. He maintains up to date training in ICH GCP and the EU Clinical Trials Directive.

He was one of the European Society of  Intensive Care Medicine’s representatives on the Steering Committee of  the Surviving Sepsis Campaign, and remains on the Publications Committee.

Special interests
Acute lung injury, multiple organ failure, general intensive care
                    

Dr. Richard John Beale, on Friday examined Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa at the Apollo Hospitals in Chennai.

Dr. Beale has opined that the Chief Minister is receiving the best course of treatment here.

Apollo Hospitals flew in Dr. Richard John Beale, Consultant Intensivist at the London Bridge Hospital, to assess her condition of our CM.

Dr. Beale, on examining Ms. Jayalalithaa, said she was receiving the best course of treatment at the hospital. An internationally renowned specialist and researcher, he will be available for further consultation over the next couple of days to the team of doctors attending on the Chief Minister.

    

    

Friday, September 23, 2016

Statins and Neurological disorders. Aleem M A. BMJ 2016;354:i4992

BMJ

Editor's Choice

Statins: we need an independent review

BMJ 2016; 354 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i4992 (Published 15 September 2016)

Cite this as: BMJ 2016;354:i4992

Rapid response

Re: Statins: we need an independent review
 

Statins and Neurological disorders

At present Statins have the potential to provide a new therapeutic target for some neurological diseases. It is well established that statins reduce cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease. Statins can also have additional properties such as endothelial protection via action on the nitric oxide synthase system, as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet effects.

These properties might have a potential therapeutic implication not only in stroke but also in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and primary brain tumors. In addition to their potent anti-atherosclerotic and cardio-protective effects, compelling clinical and preclinical studies delineate the neuro-protective efficacy of statins in all these neurological disorders.

Neurological side effects

Statins can produce muscles pain and weakness. Some people with statins may have memory loss or confusion. These side effects reverse once you stop taking the statins.

Competing interests: No competing interests

22 September 2016

M A Aleem

Neurologist

ABC Hospital. Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical college and hospital.Apollo hospital

Annamalainagar Trichy 620018.Dhanslakashmi Srinivasan medical college and Hospital Perambalure 621113. Apollo Hospitals Trichy 620010.Tamilnadu India

Thursday, September 22, 2016

FALLS PREVENTION AWARNESS DAY- Sept. 22, 2016

FALLS PREVENTION AWARNESS DAY-
Sept. 22, 2016

The 9th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day (FPAD) will be observed on Sept. 22, 2016—the first day of fall. The event raises awareness about how to prevent fall-related injuries among older adults. The theme of this year’s is  Ready, Steady, Balance: Prevent Falls in 2016.

TIPS TO PREVENT FALLS

The good news is that there are things you can do to reduce your risk for falls, whether you've already had an injury from a fall or just want to make sure you don't fall in the first place.

Patients and families   can prevent falls with the help of these follow ing tips.

1. Consult your doctor.

When a person falls two or more times within a year or has an injury caused by a fall, they probably need an evaluation by a doctor
and by using a three-pronged cane or a walker when moving about in and outside the home.

People who have had a stroke, Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive impairment. Other common causes for falls include vision problems, arthritis, and fluctuations in blood sugar caused by diabetes. High blood sugar can cause dehydration and lightheadedness. Low blood sugar can cause confusion and faintness.

Falls can be related to poor judgment and poor safety awareness.

2. Maintain good vision.

Vision problems can increase your risk for falls. “If you can't see, you can't identify a fall risk and avoid it.

Bifocals are especially troublesome when you look down at the floor and it's out of focus. Make sure your prescriptions for glasses and contacts are up-to-date, and schedule an annual eye check-up.

OUTDOORS

* Clear all steps and sidewalks of debris, clutter, and slick surfaces.

* Install textured surfaces on stairs, walkways, porches, and decks; put railings on both sides.

* Make sure doorways have low thresholds.

* Install or update outdoor lighting on entrances and in other high-traffic areas.

* Position the mailbox within easy reach.

INDOORS

* Use non-skid floor wax.

* Remove scatter rugs from tops of stairways and high-traffic areas.

* Secure all rugs so they don't slip and so feet can't “get under” a corner.

* Don't leave clothes, shoes, and bags on the floor.

* Paint a contrasting color on top edges of steps.

* Evaluate all rooms for sufficient, uniform lighting, including lights at tops and bottoms of stairs.

* Designate a special place for a first-aid kit and emergency phone numbers.

* Consider wearing an alarm device that alerts another person when you've taken a fall.

BATHROOM

* Install secure grab bars to help get in and out of the tub and shower safely.

* Clean off soap scum and use non-slip strips on tub and shower floors.

* Use adjustable-height shower heads.

* Secure bath mats so they can't slip.

KITCHEN

* Store frequently used items within easy reach to avoid climbing.

* If you must climb, use a quality, solid step stool with a top bar to hold onto.

BEDROOM

* Keep a lamp and telephone by the bed.

* Place nightlights along paths you take to and from the bed.

3. Exercise regularly.

The old adage, “Use it or lose it,” holds true for preventing falls.

  Most importantly, exercise can help people maintain their balance and strength. That advice is especially true for those with neurological conditions.

Studies says that tai chi, a slow-moving, choreographed martial art, reduced falls among stroke survivors. A tai chi course that has been modified for people with balance problems is a good option.

A physical therapist can also help develop an exercise plan for people with neurological conditions, especially those who are very frail or who were not active before. Exercising safely and with good form—and under professional supervision—is important.

4. Take stock of your medications.

Certain medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness and can affect balance. Analgesics, sedatives, and antipsychotics, for example, can throw you off balance and increase your risk for falls. Make sure your pharmacist, primary care provider, and other specialists have a complete list of all your medicines, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Ask them to identify medications that may cause drowsiness and dizziness, and have them recommend the safest options for you.

5. Do a home assessment.

Ask your doctor to recommend a physical or occupational therapist to evaluate your home for falling risks, sooner rather than later.

Being proactive instead of reactive can reduce significant physical, emotional, and financial costs.

Smart City status: Residents disappointed-The Hindu Tiruchi 22.9.2016

The Hindu
Tiruchi
22.9.2016

Smart City status: Residents disappointed

SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

The exclusion of Tiruchi Corporation in the second list of 27 Smart Cities announced by the Ministry of Urban Development has disappointed residents.

Having failed to make it in the first list of 20 Smart Cities announced in January, it was widely expected that Tiruchi would make it in the second list. Officials had expressed hope that there would not be difficulty for the city figuring in the second list. But, it has once again lost in the race.

Madurai, Salem, Thanjavur and Vellore from Tamil Nadu figure in the second list. Of them, Madurai and Thanjavur are believed to have entered the list in their capacity as tourism centres. Many wondered what is lacking in Tiruchi.

“While a part of Tiruchi is relatively well developed, another part requires a massive push to address many issues. It should have made it in the first list. I expected that it would make it at least in the second list. It is disappointing to note that it has once again failed to make it,” says A. Aleem, former Vice Principal, KAP Viswanatham Medical College, who won the first prize in essay competition for writing on “My City My Dream”.

Recollecting the active participation of citizen forums on Smart City proposal, he said that the city was one of the top cities that saw intensive community participation.

They had given a number of ideas with illustration. It should have been figured in the second list in its capacity as one of the cleanest cities in the country.

Some others felt that the officials had once again failed to present a well documented proposal.

S. Viswanathan, a civic activist, said the city had once again lost an opportunity. However, based on the lesson learnt in the first leg of smart city challenge, the officials and consultants appointed for drawing the Smart City Proposal should prepare a better proposal.

Friday, September 16, 2016

Need for guidelines for the media in covering terrorism . Aleem M A. BMJ 2016;354:i4869

BMJ

Editorials

Mental illness and terrorism

BMJ 2016; 354 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i4869 (Published 13 September 2016)

Cite this as: BMJ 2016;354:i4869

Rapid response

Need for guidelines for the media in covering terrorism

Nowadays media reports about terrorist activities and incidents of terrorism are of great concern. Over-reporting and over-coverage may result in adverse effects and further incidences.

This type of media attitude may interfere with ongoing investigations and may help the terrorists to escape.

So definitely certain guidelines are important for the media in covering, reporting and telecasting incidences of terrorism.

All the media all over the world should always adhere to these guidlines for safe, fearless day to day living.

Moreover terrorism is not a mental illness and there is no excuse or reconsideration for any terrorist activities based on this.

Competing interests: No competing interests

16 September 2016

M A Aleem

Neurologist

ABC Hospital

Annamalainagar Trichy 620018 Tamilnadu India

@drmaaleem

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Bakrid celebrated

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/bakrid-celebrated/article9105837.ece

The Hindu Tiruchi 14.9.2016

Bakrid celebrated

SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

Special prayers offered for peace and harmony
Muslims offering prayers in Thanjavur on Tuesday.Photo: R.M. Rajarathinam
Muslims offering prayers in Thanjavur on Tuesday.Photo: R.M. Rajarathinam
Bakrid, the festival of sacrifice, was celebrated with usual gaiety in Tiruchi and other central districts on Tuesday.

Khutba prayers were held in various mosques in these districts in which a large number of Muslims took part.

A large congregation of Muslims offered prayers at the Idgah maidan in Cantonment in the city in the morning. Prayers were also held in Palakkarai N.M. Panch Minar mosque, Fort Idgah maidan, Hazrath Natharvali Dargah mosque, NSB Road, Hassan Bagh mosque, Chowk Big Mosque and Jamal Mohamed College mosques.

Special `duas' was recited for peace and communal harmony . People from other religions greeted their Muslim brothers.

According to reports received here, a large number of Muslims took part in the special prayers in the different mosques in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Karur, Ariyalur and Perambalur districts.

MORE IN: TAMIL NADU | NATIONAL

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Female or male condoms are good. Aleem M A. Hakkim A M. BMJ 2016;354:i4920

BMJ

News

Tell women IUD is more effective than emergency contraceptive pill, says NICE

BMJ 2016; 354 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i4920 (Published 12 September 2016)

Cite this as: BMJ 2016;354:i4920

Rapid response

Re: Tell women IUD is more effective than emergency contraceptive pill, says NICE

Female or male condoms are good

Both IUDs and emergency contraceptive pills can assist in preventing conception but it will not prevent the transmission of virues bacteria and other sexually transmitting agents. So female or male latex condoms are good and cost effective.

Competing interests: No competing interests

13 September 2016

M A Aleem

Neurologist

A M Hakkim

ABC Hospital, Dhanalakshmai Srinivadan Medical college and medical college

Annamalainagar Trichy 620018 Tamilnadu India, Dhanalakshmai Srinivadan medical college and hospital siruvachur Perembalure 621113

@drmaaleem

 

Monday, September 12, 2016

MENTION DETAILS OF DECIBEL Reader's Mail Tiruchi The Hindu 13.9. 2016

The Hindu
Tiruchi TAMIL NADU September 13, 2016

Reader's Mail

MENTION DETAILS
OF DECIBEL

Sound pressure is measured in decibels. If sound pressure exceeds 85dB it can cause hearing defects. Sound levels above 140 dB (for children 120 dB) are not considered safe for any period of time, however brief.
Firecrackers are producing sound more than 140dB. They can damage our hearing.
Manufacture, sale and use of firecrackers generating sound levels exceeding 125 dB at four meters distance are banned. It is better to mention the sound level produced on bursting in decibels on all  firecrackers packs.

M.A. Aleem,
Tiruchi.

Monday, September 5, 2016

Alcohol Affects Fertility in women and men . Aleem M A , Hakkim A M. BMJ 2016;354:i4262

theBMJ

Research

Alcohol consumption and fecundability: prospective Danish cohort study

BMJ 2016; 354 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i4262 (Published 31 August 2016)

Cite this as: BMJ 2016;354:i4262

Rapid response

Re: Alcohol consumption and fecundability: prospective Danish cohort study

Alcohol Affects Fertility in women and men

Alcohol depresses the adrenal glands and slows the release of hormones produced by the adrenal glands. This may directly impair egg health in women and libido.

In menalcohol consumption is associated with decreased number of normal sperm and normal sperm quality.

Alcoholic beverages contain a lot of sugar. Excessive sugar consumption decreases fertility by contributing to hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, yeast infection, vitamin and mineral deficiency and lowered immunity.

Drinking alcohol around the time of ovulation lowers your chance of successful conception.

Alcohol in women can leads to multiple fertility problems including, ammenorrhea , reduced ovarian weight, lowered hormone concentrations, inhibited ovulation, and interference with sperm cell transportation through the fallopian tube. 

Competing interests: No competing interests

04 September 2016

M A Aleem

Neurologist

A M Hakkim

ABC Hospital .Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical college and Hospital

Annamalainagar Trichy 620018 .Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical College and Hospital Perambalure 621113. Tamilnadu India

@drmaaleem

Sunday, September 4, 2016

Alcohol Affects Fertility in women and men .Aleem M A, Hakkim A M. BMJ 2016;354:i4262

theBMJ

Research

Alcohol consumption and fecundability: prospective Danish cohort study

BMJ 2016; 354 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.i4262 (Published 31 August 2016)

Cite this as: BMJ 2016;354:i4262

Rapid response

Re: Alcohol consumption and fecundability: prospective Danish cohort study

Alcohol Affects Fertility in women and men

Alcohol depresses the adrenal glands and slows the release of hormones produced by the adrenal glands. This may directly impair egg health in women and libido.

In menalcohol consumption is associated with decreased number of normal sperm and normal sperm quality.

Alcoholic beverages contain a lot of sugar. Excessive sugar consumption decreases fertility by contributing to hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, yeast infection, vitamin and mineral deficiency and lowered
Drinking alcohol around the time of ovulation lowers your chance of successful conception.

Alcohol in women can leads to multiple fertility problems including, ammenorrhea , reduced ovarian weight, lowered hormone concentrations, inhibited ovulation, and interference with sperm cell transportation through the fallopian tube. 

Competing interests: No competing interests

04 September 2016

M A Aleem

Neurologist

A M Hakkim

ABC Hospital .Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical college and Hospital

Annamalainagar Trichy 620018 .Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical College and Hospital Perambalure 621113. Tamilnadu India

@drmaaleem