Becoming a mother is a time of immense happiness for most women. But new mothers also experience frustration, worry, disappointment and guilt. Postpartum “baby blues” are common and typically start days after birth and last up to two weeks. Symptoms include mood swings, anxiety, tearfulness, and trouble sleeping. Sometimes [...]
It may come as no surprise that up to 80% of women experience nausea during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. Severe nausea and vomiting is a reason for higher rates of pregnancy termination. So, it follows that the early, effective, and safe treatment of nausea is crucial for [...]
It isn’t news to most women that many birth control pills come with a variety of side effects. One of these side effects is an increased risk of developing a blood clot. Stories of young women and girls suffering stroke or death have been in the media, with teen [...]
Many people worry from time to time. For example, feeling stressed or anxious before a big test is normal and helps us face challenges. But when worries and fear are prolonged and intense, it can disrupt daily life. Anxiety becomes a disorder when fear and worry make it difficult to [...]
The escalating cost of biologic medications has private and public plan sponsors concerned. Many are turning to new technologies to stratify patient populations with the aim of reducing the total cost of biologics. Some providers are considering pharmacogenetic tests to guide selection of drug therapy. Others are looking at [...]
You might be wondering why a doctor would prescribe an antidepressant to treat your irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Sometimes low doses of antidepressants are prescribed for IBS, even if the IBS sufferer is not depressed. Research has shown that two main types of antidepressant (SSRIs and TCAs) help IBS [...]
Ancestry genetic testing is a great introduction to genetics for many people. Direct-to-consumer ancestry tests can predict how much Neanderthal DNA you’ve inherited or that your eyes are blue rather than brown. These tests are entertaining, affordable and have changed the relationship we have with our DNA. Customers who order [...]
Depression can affect both the young and old. Younger age group studies of depression show stress and social pressures from peers and parents alike can cause depression. However, rates of depression increase with age. Work-related stress, unsuccessful marriages, or the loss of a spouse are the leading causes of [...]
The legalization of cannabis poses a challenge for employers and insurers, as they are expected to cover the cost of medical cannabis as a part of their employee health benefits. A recent Deloitte report indicates that 7% of adult Canadian population are daily cannabis users, of which 29% are [...]
Seasonal Affective Disorder Many people find themselves feeling down during the dark and dreary winter months. For some, the winter blues become serious depression. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a pattern of major depressive episodes, with symptoms typically occurring each year during the fall and winter. Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal [...]
