REPORTING POINT 11-99
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
“Live healthy...live well”
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
SWAPA Voice Mail Box 511/email lwkline@compuserve.com
HOW NOISE AFFECTS HEARING - noise destroys delicate, bristly cells that line the snail-shaped chamber of the inner ear, or cochlea. These so-called hair cells are responsible for translating incoming sound waves into electrical impulses - to be interpreted by the brain.
Just how dangerous a sound is depends on its intensity and duration. An hour’s exposure to blaring tunes may wilt thousands of hair cells for an afternoon, but most will bounce back and so will your hearing. In contrast, a single explosive blast louder than 160 decibels - such as a shotgun blast at close range - can instantly kill the sensitive sound detectors by splitting open the membranes on which they sit.
A more common injury arises from frequent exposure to milder levels of loudness. If regularly battered by sound, individual cells eventually lose their resilience and die. Though initially unnoticeable, the destruction is cumulative. By the time you begin to have difficulty understanding conversations, you may have lost 30 to 50 percent of the 15,000 hair cells in each ear.
Most of this insidious exposure occurs on the job. Sounds that exceed the 80 to 85 decibel limit considered safe are similar to the buzz of a power mower or leaf blower, or the APU exhaust - but it all adds up to hearing damage.
Using a sound meter, movies have been measured at 118 decibels and nightclubs have reached 126 - levels that if sustained at that intensity, could do lasting damage in just minutes.
Obviously, aging contributes to hearing loss - especially hardening of the arteries and other common aspects of “acquired seniority”. But noise damage seems to be the major cause of hearing loss in the 3,000 to 4,000 hertz range - the pitch of consonant sounds in speech.
Researchers are still investigating how noise inflicts damage at the molecular level. One leading theory speculates that overtaxed hair cells emit increasing amounts of unstable particles (free radicals), that then enter the blood vessels to do cellular damage to hearing. If this theory is accurate, antioxidants may repair cellular damage and contribute to reduced hearing loss. Some animal studies have already shown that a squirt of antioxidant medicine deep into the ear seems to reverse some hair-cell damage. (However, there is currently no evidence that antioxidants absorbed through dietary foods or supplementation can help repair hearing damage.) Using this “in your ear” approach to supply antioxidants directly to the ear, researchers at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego have apparently restored the hearing of several people whose hearing perception had been significantly dulled by noise or medication. This treatment also appeared to eliminate tinnitus (ringing in the ears). So far, the number of test subjects has been small, but results are promising. Also, it must be noted the timing is crucial; damage left untreated for more than a few weeks is probably irreversible.
The military has a strong interest in the loss-of -hearing research - since they spend $1.5 billion a year treating hearing-related disabilities.
Since we must live and work in a “silence-challenged” environment, at least give your hearing a rest. Wearing ear plugs when exposed to harsh noises can save your hearing and help prevent long-term hearing loss. Health 7/99.
LATE-NIGHT MEALS STAY WITH YOU LONGER - in a recent study, people on a 2,000 calorie diet gained weight when they got all their calories at dinner - when they ate the same meal earlier in the day, they actually lost a few pounds.
Eating the majority of your caloric intake late at night signals the body to send insulin surging into the bloodstream, which in turn makes it more likely that these calories will be stored as fat by the body.
Don’t skip breakfast, eat a hearty lunch, and dine early to help your body assimilate the food you consume. Health 7/99.
IT'S ONLY A COLD ! By Dr. Dougal Watson (submitted by Captain Paul Christiansen -PHX)
So your throat is sore, your nose running, and your head throbbing as if to burst. You can't help speaking with a characteristic nasal twang causing friends and colleagues alike to comment or ask "Got a cold have we?". Between coughs and sniffles you're forced to reply "Yes, but it's not a problem. It's only a little cold, I should be over it in a couple of days !".
This is a familiar story around most homes and workplaces and indeed a cold usually isn't much of a problem. The situation could be very different if, however, you plan to travel in an aircraft while suffering from this usually inconsequential ailment.
I'd like to tell you a little bit about colds, what they are, what they do to your body, and most importantly how these effects can alter your suitability to pilot an aircraft. This should allow you to make an informed decision, the next time you've got a cold, concerning your fitness to fly.
A cold is proper cause for taking the responsible action of voluntarily and temporarily grounding yourself from flying. I've suffered the pain and distress of bilateral haemotympanum (that's bleeding into the ear drums of both ears, the stage before perforation or rupture of the eardrums) during an aerobatic spin sequence when, unknowingly, I was brewing a cold. I've also seen usually stout military aircrew reduced to tears of pain during descent because having a cold rendered them unable to clear the pressure in their facial sinuses(1). Although a minor ailment to most folk a cold is a potential disaster to aviators (and those that fly with us).
What is a cold ? A cold is an infection, caused by any one of a hundred or so related rhinoviruses (2). It usually takes one or two days for a cold to incubate or brew once you've caught it.
The first symptoms you notice are usually tiredness and irritability along with a tickley, scratchy throat, blocked or runny nose, and a mild headache. The runny nose (rhinorrhoea) usually increases over the next couple of days and then settles rather rapidly as the whole illness resolves. Bouts of sneezing may also occur. A fever is unusual during the common cold. A small number of people (around 1 ‑ 2%) will develop bronchitis at the same time and have a cough that produces quantities of sputum (phlegm).
Most of us use the word cold in reference to any illness or infection of the nose, throat, ears, and lungs that involves a runny nose or mild cough. Many other viruses (3) are also able to cause diseases similar to the common cold. The illness caused by these other viruses is often more severe than a common cold and may involve quite marked cough, fever, sore throat, or even pneumonia.
The common cold, along with any of the above mentioned viral upper respiratory tract infections, is often more severe in children.
You won't be surprised to hear that colds are more common in the winter and autumn. Nobody is certain why this is the case but it may have something to do with the increased time we all spend indoors close to other people during the colder months.
For the purpose of this article I'm not going to distinguish between all of these related but different illnesses. I'm simply going to use the word 'cold' to denote any, or all, of the above ‑ after all they have similar relevance to aviators.
What happens during the infection? The offending virus usually gains access to your body through the lining tissues of your upper airways, especially the nose or throat. It invades the cells there and sets about doing what viruses do best, trying to produce more of its kind and send them forth into the world to infect other cells and produce even more viruses. To do this the virus must hijack machinery and equipment within the cell. This machinery is reserved for the cell's privileged use and the hijacking may set off alarms and alert the body's defense (or immune) system.
As the virus multiplies the cell may rupture and millions of new viruses spill into the bloodstream or nearby tissues. This release of new viruses may also alert the immune system's equivalent of 'customs and immigration', ever watchful for viruses without visas. The release of new viruses causes the cell to die and the immune 'homicide squad' may also be called.
The alerted immune system then mobilizes to seek and destroy all viruses, bits of viruses, and hijacked, infected cells. This is usually achieved rapidly and the illness rarely lasts much longer than a few days. This response almost invariably results in swelling of the infected areas as the battle rages between the immune system and the infecting virus.
Once a virus has been vanquished the immune system 'remembers' it, and is able to recognize its closer relatives, for a time. It is still possible for a not‑so‑closely‑related virus to cause another cold soon afterwards and the memory eventually fades so that the same virus may again cause a cold some time in the future.
You can spread a cold to others because as you breath out virus particles may leave your nasal area in the air or within tiny fluid droplets. If someone near you breaths in some of the virus particles the whole process may start afresh in their nasal passages.
How can a cold affect flying? The two features of a cold that are most important to aviators are the overflow of new viruses into the bloodstream and the swelling of nose and throat tissues.
The first of these, the release of new viruses from their host cell into the body is often called the 'viraemic phase' (4). This viraemic phase usually results in the headaches and general feeling of tiredness, lethargy, and unwellness (5) that is usually associated with a cold.
Anything that makes you feel tired and unwell is a distraction from flying and may well impair your decision making abilities at a critical moment. The viraemic phase of a cold is no exception and our mental and physical performance is always impaired. As aircrew we can ill afford any impairment of our performance that may affect our safety and that of the craft we fly and those that choose to fly with us.
As the tissues lining the nasal area swell the tiny openings to the ears (eustachian tubes) and the sinuses (ostia) become narrowed and may close over. Closure of these small tissue lined tubes makes ear and sinus pressure equalization difficult or impossible. Inability to equalize our ears and sinuses during ascent or descent may result in pain and tissue damage. The term barotrauma (as in barometer) is used to refer to these pressure related tissue damage.
The pain of sinus and ear barotrauma can be of crippling intensity leaving the sufferer unable to devote attention to the task of flying. The tissue damage, which could include rupture of the ear‑drums or the filling of a sinus with blood, may adversely affect our short and long term "fitness to fly". It's really not worth the risk.
What can you do? The first action for an aviator with a cold is the simplest but often the most difficult. When you have a cold you are most certainly not fit to fly. It's as simple as that, the risks are just not worth it. To fly whilst suffering a cold a professional aviator would be exposing his passengers, cargo, and employer to an added, avoidable risk while a sports aviator exposes himself, his passengers, and his craft to the same unnecessary risks.
As an air passenger you are still exposed to the same risks during a cold. It is unlikely, though, that as a passenger you could cause the wreck of an aircraft or the injury of others. Should you choose to travel by air as a passenger while you've got a cold there's a few things you might find useful knowing.
There is no cure (yet) for the common cold! Our immune system is the only avenue we have for ridding our body of the cold virus. To function at its peak our immune system must be maintained by a sensible and well balanced diet. Large doses of vitamins or mineral supplements do not cure the common cold. The body also requires adequate rest for its immune system to remain in peak condition.
Antibiotics do not cure colds! Viruses are immune to antibiotics. It is only when the cold is likely to become complicated with a second, overlapping bacterial infection that antibiotics have any place at all in the management of colds. Anyone healthy enough to maintain an aircrew licence is extremely unlikely to suffer any bacterial complications of a common cold.
It is only if the cold symptoms are sufficiently severe that medication has any place in the treatment of a cold. Even then the only effect that medicine will have is some relief of the symptoms. Medication can't cure or dispel a cold. Aspirin (6) or Paracetamol (7) will help to relieve a headache or sore throat and may settle a mild fever. Decongestants (8) will reduce some of the swelling of the nasal lining tissues and may make it easier to equalize the ears or sinuses. It may also be possible to relieve an irritating cough with a cough mixture or tablets.
Conclusion: a. A cold is an upper respiratory tract infection caused by any of a large number of viruses.
b. There is no cure for a cold, the body's immune system must be allowed to fight the infection.
c. Adequate rest and a sensible diet are the best ways to help your immune system.
d. Flying with a cold is just not worth the risk! (Editor’s note-you also expose fellow crewmembers to your cold and risk making your whole crew ill-LK)
This article was originally published as: “It's Only A Cold!” in the AOPA (Australia) Magazine, Vol. 44, No. 9, September 1991. Comments should be directed to the author, Dr. Dougal Watson ‑ dxw@ozemail.com.au
Monday, November 1, 1999
Friday, October 1, 1999
Health News
REPORTING POINT 11-99
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
“Live healthy...live well”
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
SWAPA Voice MailBox 511/email lwkline@compuserve.com
IT'S ONLY A COLD ! By Dr. Dougal Watson (submitted by Captain Paul Christiansen)
So your throat is sore, your nose running, and your head throbbing as if to burst. You can't help speaking with a characteristic nasal twang causing friends and colleagues alike to comment or ask "Got a cold have we ?". Between coughs and sniffles you're forced to reply "Yes, but it's not a problem. It's only a little cold, I should be over it in a couple of days !".
This is a familiar story around most homes and workplaces and indeed a cold usually isn't much of a problem. The situation could be very different if, however, you plan to travel in an aircraft while suffering from this usually inconsequential ailment.
I'd like to tell you a little bit about colds, what they are, what they do to your body, and most importantly how these effects can alter your suitability to pilot an aircraft. This should allow you to make an informed decision, the next time you've got a cold, concerning your fitness to fly.
A cold is proper cause for taking the responsible action of voluntarily and temporarily grounding yourself from flying. I've suffered the pain and distress of bilateral haemotympanum (that's bleeding into the ear drums of both ears, the stage before perforation or rupture of the eardrums) during an aerobatic spin sequence when, unknowingly, I was brewing a cold. I've also seen usually stout military aircrew reduced to tears of pain during descent because having a cold rendered them unable to clear the pressure in their facial sinuses(1). Although a minor ailment to most folk a cold is a potential disaster to aviators (and those that fly with us).
What is a cold ? A cold is an infection, caused by any one of a hundred or so related rhinoviruses (2). It usually takes one or two days for a cold to incubate or brew once you've caught it.
The first symptoms you notice are usually tiredness and irritability along with a tickley, scratchy throat, blocked or runny nose, and a mild headache. The runny nose (rhinorrhoea) usually increases over the next couple of days and then settles rather rapidly as the whole illness resolves. Bouts of sneezing may also occur. A fever is unusual during the common cold. A small number of people (around 1 ‑ 2%) will develop bronchitis at the same time and have a cough that produces quantities of sputum (phlegm).
Most of us use the word cold in reference to any illness or infection of the nose, throat, ears, and lungs that involves a runny nose or mild cough. Many other viruses (3) are also able to cause diseases similar to the common cold. The illness caused by these other viruses is often more severe than a common cold and may involve quite marked cough, fever, sore throat, or even pneumonia.
The common cold, along with any of the above mentioned viral upper respiratory tract infections, is often more severe in children.
You won't be surprised to hear that colds are more common in the winter and autumn. Nobody is certain why this is the case but it may have something to do with the increased time we all spend indoors close to other people during the colder months.
For the purpose of this article I'm not going to distinguish between all of these related but different illnesses. I'm simply going to use the word 'cold' to denote any, or all, of the above ‑ after all they have similar relevance to aviators.
What happens during the infection? The offending virus usually gains access to your body through the lining tissues of your upper airways, especially the nose or throat. It invades the cells there and sets about doing what viruses do best, trying to produce more of its kind and send them forth into the world to infect other cells and produce even more viruses. To do this the virus must hijack machinery and equipment within the cell. This machinery is reserved for the cell's privileged use and the hijacking may set off alarms and alert the body's defense (or immune) system.
As the virus multiplies the cell may rupture and millions of new viruses spill into the bloodstream or nearby tissues. This release of new viruses may also alert the immune system's equivalent of 'customs and immigration', ever watchful for viruses without visas. The release of new viruses causes the cell to die and the immune 'homicide squad' may also be called.
The alerted immune system then mobilizes to seek and destroy all viruses, bits of viruses, and hijacked, infected cells. This is usually achieved rapidly and the illness rarely lasts much longer than a few days. This response almost invariably results in swelling of the infected areas as the battle rages between the immune system and the infecting virus.
Once a virus has been vanquished the immune system 'remembers' it, and is able to recognize its closer relatives, for a time. It is still possible for a not‑so‑closely‑related virus to cause another cold soon afterwards and the memory eventually fades so that the same virus may again cause a cold some time in the future.
You can spread a cold to others because as you breath out virus particles may leave your nasal area in the air or within tiny fluid droplets. If someone near you breaths in some of the virus particles the whole process may start afresh in their nasal passages.
How can a cold affect flying? The two features of a cold that are most important to aviators are the overflow of new viruses into the bloodstream and the swelling of nose and throat tissues.
The first of these, the release of new viruses from their host cell into the body is often called the 'viraemic phase' (4). This viraemic phase usually results in the headaches and general feeling of tiredness, lethargy, and unwellness (5) that is usually associated with a cold.
Anything that makes you feel tired and unwell is a distraction from flying and may well impair your decision making abilities at a critical moment. The viraemic phase of a cold is no exception and our mental and physical performance is always impaired. As aircrew we can ill afford any impairment of our performance that may affect our safety and that of the craft we fly and those that choose to fly with us.
As the tissues lining the nasal area swell the tiny openings to the ears (eustachian tubes) and the sinuses (ostia) become narrowed and may close over. Closure of these small tissue lined tubes makes ear and sinus pressure equalization difficult or impossible. Inability to equalize our ears and sinuses during ascent or descent may result in pain and tissue damage. The term barotrauma (as in barometer) is used to refer to these pressure related tissue damage.
The pain of sinus and ear barotrauma can be of crippling intensity leaving the sufferer unable to devote attention to the task of flying. The tissue damage, which could include rupture of the ear‑drums or the filling of a sinus with blood, may adversely affect our short and long term "fitness to fly". It's really not worth the risk.
What can you do? The first action for an aviator with a cold is the simplest but often the most difficult. When you have a cold you are most certainly not fit to fly. It's as simple as that, the risks are just not worth it. To fly whilst suffering a cold a professional aviator would be exposing his passengers, cargo, and employer to an added, avoidable risk while a sports aviator exposes himself, his passengers, and his craft to the same unnecessary risks.
As an air passenger you are still exposed to the same risks during a cold. It is unlikely, though, that as a passenger you could cause the wreck of an aircraft or the injury of others. Should you choose to travel by air as a passenger while you've got a cold there's a few things you might find useful knowing.
There is no cure (yet) for the common cold! Our immune system is the only avenue we have for ridding our body of the cold virus. To function at its peak our immune system must be maintained by a sensible and well balanced diet. Large doses of vitamins or mineral supplements do not cure the common cold. The body also requires adequate rest for its immune system to remain in peak condition.
Antibiotics do not cure colds! Viruses are immune to antibiotics. It is only when the cold is likely to become complicated with a second, overlapping bacterial infection that antibiotics have any place at all in the management of colds. Anyone healthy enough to maintain an aircrew licence is extremely unlikely to suffer any bacterial complications of a common cold.
It is only if the cold symptoms are sufficiently severe that medication has any place in the treatment of a cold. Even then the only effect that medicine will have is some relief of the symptoms. Medication can't cure or dispel a cold. Aspirin (6) or Paracetamol (7) will help to relieve a headache or sore throat and may settle a mild fever. Decongestants (8) will reduce some of the swelling of the nasal lining tissues and may make it easier to equalize the ears or sinuses. It may also be possible to relieve an irritating cough with a cough mixture or tablets.
Conclusion. a.. A COLD IS AN UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION CAUSED BY ANY OF A LARGE NUMBER OF VIRUSES.
b.. THERE IS NO CURE FOR A COLD, THE BODY'S IMMUNE SYSTEM MUST BE ALLOWED TO FIGHT THE INFECTION.
c.. ADEQUATE REST AND A SENSIBLE DIET ARE THE BEST WAYS TO HELP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM.
d.. FLYING WITH A COLD IS JUST NOT WORTH THE RISK
This article was originally published as: “It's Only A Cold!” in the AOPA (Australia) Magazine, Vol. 44, No. 9, September 1991. Comments should be directed to the author, Dr. Dougal Watson ‑ dxw@ozemail.com.au
From the Flight Surgeon:
""
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
“Live healthy...live well”
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
SWAPA Voice MailBox 511/email lwkline@compuserve.com
IT'S ONLY A COLD ! By Dr. Dougal Watson (submitted by Captain Paul Christiansen)
So your throat is sore, your nose running, and your head throbbing as if to burst. You can't help speaking with a characteristic nasal twang causing friends and colleagues alike to comment or ask "Got a cold have we ?". Between coughs and sniffles you're forced to reply "Yes, but it's not a problem. It's only a little cold, I should be over it in a couple of days !".
This is a familiar story around most homes and workplaces and indeed a cold usually isn't much of a problem. The situation could be very different if, however, you plan to travel in an aircraft while suffering from this usually inconsequential ailment.
I'd like to tell you a little bit about colds, what they are, what they do to your body, and most importantly how these effects can alter your suitability to pilot an aircraft. This should allow you to make an informed decision, the next time you've got a cold, concerning your fitness to fly.
A cold is proper cause for taking the responsible action of voluntarily and temporarily grounding yourself from flying. I've suffered the pain and distress of bilateral haemotympanum (that's bleeding into the ear drums of both ears, the stage before perforation or rupture of the eardrums) during an aerobatic spin sequence when, unknowingly, I was brewing a cold. I've also seen usually stout military aircrew reduced to tears of pain during descent because having a cold rendered them unable to clear the pressure in their facial sinuses(1). Although a minor ailment to most folk a cold is a potential disaster to aviators (and those that fly with us).
What is a cold ? A cold is an infection, caused by any one of a hundred or so related rhinoviruses (2). It usually takes one or two days for a cold to incubate or brew once you've caught it.
The first symptoms you notice are usually tiredness and irritability along with a tickley, scratchy throat, blocked or runny nose, and a mild headache. The runny nose (rhinorrhoea) usually increases over the next couple of days and then settles rather rapidly as the whole illness resolves. Bouts of sneezing may also occur. A fever is unusual during the common cold. A small number of people (around 1 ‑ 2%) will develop bronchitis at the same time and have a cough that produces quantities of sputum (phlegm).
Most of us use the word cold in reference to any illness or infection of the nose, throat, ears, and lungs that involves a runny nose or mild cough. Many other viruses (3) are also able to cause diseases similar to the common cold. The illness caused by these other viruses is often more severe than a common cold and may involve quite marked cough, fever, sore throat, or even pneumonia.
The common cold, along with any of the above mentioned viral upper respiratory tract infections, is often more severe in children.
You won't be surprised to hear that colds are more common in the winter and autumn. Nobody is certain why this is the case but it may have something to do with the increased time we all spend indoors close to other people during the colder months.
For the purpose of this article I'm not going to distinguish between all of these related but different illnesses. I'm simply going to use the word 'cold' to denote any, or all, of the above ‑ after all they have similar relevance to aviators.
What happens during the infection? The offending virus usually gains access to your body through the lining tissues of your upper airways, especially the nose or throat. It invades the cells there and sets about doing what viruses do best, trying to produce more of its kind and send them forth into the world to infect other cells and produce even more viruses. To do this the virus must hijack machinery and equipment within the cell. This machinery is reserved for the cell's privileged use and the hijacking may set off alarms and alert the body's defense (or immune) system.
As the virus multiplies the cell may rupture and millions of new viruses spill into the bloodstream or nearby tissues. This release of new viruses may also alert the immune system's equivalent of 'customs and immigration', ever watchful for viruses without visas. The release of new viruses causes the cell to die and the immune 'homicide squad' may also be called.
The alerted immune system then mobilizes to seek and destroy all viruses, bits of viruses, and hijacked, infected cells. This is usually achieved rapidly and the illness rarely lasts much longer than a few days. This response almost invariably results in swelling of the infected areas as the battle rages between the immune system and the infecting virus.
Once a virus has been vanquished the immune system 'remembers' it, and is able to recognize its closer relatives, for a time. It is still possible for a not‑so‑closely‑related virus to cause another cold soon afterwards and the memory eventually fades so that the same virus may again cause a cold some time in the future.
You can spread a cold to others because as you breath out virus particles may leave your nasal area in the air or within tiny fluid droplets. If someone near you breaths in some of the virus particles the whole process may start afresh in their nasal passages.
How can a cold affect flying? The two features of a cold that are most important to aviators are the overflow of new viruses into the bloodstream and the swelling of nose and throat tissues.
The first of these, the release of new viruses from their host cell into the body is often called the 'viraemic phase' (4). This viraemic phase usually results in the headaches and general feeling of tiredness, lethargy, and unwellness (5) that is usually associated with a cold.
Anything that makes you feel tired and unwell is a distraction from flying and may well impair your decision making abilities at a critical moment. The viraemic phase of a cold is no exception and our mental and physical performance is always impaired. As aircrew we can ill afford any impairment of our performance that may affect our safety and that of the craft we fly and those that choose to fly with us.
As the tissues lining the nasal area swell the tiny openings to the ears (eustachian tubes) and the sinuses (ostia) become narrowed and may close over. Closure of these small tissue lined tubes makes ear and sinus pressure equalization difficult or impossible. Inability to equalize our ears and sinuses during ascent or descent may result in pain and tissue damage. The term barotrauma (as in barometer) is used to refer to these pressure related tissue damage.
The pain of sinus and ear barotrauma can be of crippling intensity leaving the sufferer unable to devote attention to the task of flying. The tissue damage, which could include rupture of the ear‑drums or the filling of a sinus with blood, may adversely affect our short and long term "fitness to fly". It's really not worth the risk.
What can you do? The first action for an aviator with a cold is the simplest but often the most difficult. When you have a cold you are most certainly not fit to fly. It's as simple as that, the risks are just not worth it. To fly whilst suffering a cold a professional aviator would be exposing his passengers, cargo, and employer to an added, avoidable risk while a sports aviator exposes himself, his passengers, and his craft to the same unnecessary risks.
As an air passenger you are still exposed to the same risks during a cold. It is unlikely, though, that as a passenger you could cause the wreck of an aircraft or the injury of others. Should you choose to travel by air as a passenger while you've got a cold there's a few things you might find useful knowing.
There is no cure (yet) for the common cold! Our immune system is the only avenue we have for ridding our body of the cold virus. To function at its peak our immune system must be maintained by a sensible and well balanced diet. Large doses of vitamins or mineral supplements do not cure the common cold. The body also requires adequate rest for its immune system to remain in peak condition.
Antibiotics do not cure colds! Viruses are immune to antibiotics. It is only when the cold is likely to become complicated with a second, overlapping bacterial infection that antibiotics have any place at all in the management of colds. Anyone healthy enough to maintain an aircrew licence is extremely unlikely to suffer any bacterial complications of a common cold.
It is only if the cold symptoms are sufficiently severe that medication has any place in the treatment of a cold. Even then the only effect that medicine will have is some relief of the symptoms. Medication can't cure or dispel a cold. Aspirin (6) or Paracetamol (7) will help to relieve a headache or sore throat and may settle a mild fever. Decongestants (8) will reduce some of the swelling of the nasal lining tissues and may make it easier to equalize the ears or sinuses. It may also be possible to relieve an irritating cough with a cough mixture or tablets.
Conclusion. a.. A COLD IS AN UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION CAUSED BY ANY OF A LARGE NUMBER OF VIRUSES.
b.. THERE IS NO CURE FOR A COLD, THE BODY'S IMMUNE SYSTEM MUST BE ALLOWED TO FIGHT THE INFECTION.
c.. ADEQUATE REST AND A SENSIBLE DIET ARE THE BEST WAYS TO HELP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM.
d.. FLYING WITH A COLD IS JUST NOT WORTH THE RISK
This article was originally published as: “It's Only A Cold!” in the AOPA (Australia) Magazine, Vol. 44, No. 9, September 1991. Comments should be directed to the author, Dr. Dougal Watson ‑ dxw@ozemail.com.au
From the Flight Surgeon:
""
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
Monday, March 1, 1999
Health News
REPORTING POINT 9-99
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
“SUPER” PENICILLIN - reports of antibiotic-resistant bacteria have been plaguing us for years. But now there is some good news - scientists at the University of Limerick in Ireland have improved the penicillin molecules. When resistant bacteria release the enzymes that zap the old penicillin, the new penicillin moves in to destroy the bacteria. “It’s what we call a checkmate strategy,” says Timothy Smyth, PH.D., the research leader. Human trials should begin in about two years. Men’s Health 3/99.
THE JOY OF SOY, PART II ‑ researchers are learning more about how soy products protect against cancer. According to a laboratory study at the University of Southern California, a soy compound called genistein suppresses proteins that help cancer cells survive attacks by the immune system. Men's Health 7/98.
MORE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE - by now, you know the basic benefits of regular exercising. But recently released long-term studies have yielded quite a few additional benefits not previously considered.
Immune response - aerobic exercise raises the immune system’s ability to recognize invading bacteria and viruses. Moderate exercise in any form for 30 to 60 minutes is ideal - what matters is intensity and duration. However, after 90 minutes at high intensity, the body releases stress hormones that push the odds of illness in the other direction, decreasing the body’s disease-fighting capability.
Increased metabolism - strength training builds muscle mass, which raises resting metabolic rate. Besides burning calories during exercise, strength training increases the basic metabolic rate throughout the day.
Stress reduction - researchers have found that just 20 minutes of low-intensity exercise can reduce stress and anxiety for over two hours.
Increased cranial activity - English researchers have found an increase in ideas and creative thinking among regular exercisers.
Decreased appetite - mild to moderate exercise does not stimulate hunger, and intense exercise may actually suppress appetite for 15 to 30 minutes.
Decrease cholesterol - in a study of 26 men with elevated cholesterol, a 350-calorie workout on a stationary cycle at moderate intensity immediately lowered total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. Aerobic exercise at least every other day seems to keep these benefits over a long-term period. Men’s Health 3/99.
IT'S ONLY A COLD ! By Dr. Dougal Watson (submitted by Captain Paul Christiansen)
So your throat is sore, your nose running, and your head throbbing as if to burst. You can't help speaking with a characteristic nasal twang causing friends and colleagues alike to comment or ask "Got a cold have we ?". Between coughs and sniffles you're forced to reply "Yes, but it's not a problem. It's only a little cold, I should be over it in a couple of days !".
This is a familiar story around most homes and workplaces and indeed a cold usually isn't much of a problem. The situation could be very different if, however, you plan to travel in an aircraft while suffering from this usually inconsequential ailment.
I'd like to tell you a little bit about colds, what they are, what they do to your body, and most importantly how these effects can alter your suitability to pilot an aircraft. This should allow you to make an informed decision, the next time you've got a cold, concerning your fitness to fly.
A cold is proper cause for taking the responsible action of voluntarily and temporarily grounding yourself from flying. I've suffered the pain and distress of bilateral haemotympanum (that's bleeding into the ear drums of both ears, the stage before perforation or rupture of the eardrums) during an aerobatic spin sequence when, unknowingly, I was brewing a cold. I've also seen usually stout military aircrew reduced to tears of pain during descent because having a cold rendered them unable to clear the pressure in their facial sinuses(1). Although a minor ailment to most folk a cold is a potential disaster to aviators (and those that fly with us).
What is a cold ? A cold is an infection, caused by any one of a hundred or so related rhinoviruses (2). It usually takes one or two days for a cold to incubate or brew once you've caught it.
The first symptoms you notice are usually tiredness and irritability along with a tickley, scratchy throat, blocked or runny nose, and a mild headache. The runny nose (rhinorrhoea) usually increases over the next couple of days and then settles rather rapidly as the whole illness resolves. Bouts of sneezing may also occur. A fever is unusual during the common cold. A small number of people (around 1 ‑ 2%) will develop bronchitis at the same time and have a cough that produces quantities of sputum (phlegm).
Most of us use the word cold in reference to any illness or infection of the nose, throat, ears, and lungs that involves a runny nose or mild cough. Many other viruses (3) are also able to cause diseases similar to the common cold. The illness caused by these other viruses is often more severe than a common cold and may involve quite marked cough, fever, sore throat, or even pneumonia.
The common cold, along with any of the above mentioned viral upper respiratory tract infections, is often more severe in children.
You won't be surprised to hear that colds are more common in the winter and autumn. Nobody is certain why this is the case but it may have something to do with the increased time we all spend indoors close to other people during the colder months.
For the purpose of this article I'm not going to distinguish between all of these related but different illnesses. I'm simply going to use the word 'cold' to denote any, or all, of the above ‑ after all they have similar relevance to aviators.
What happens during the infection? The offending virus usually gains access to your body through the lining tissues of your upper airways, especially the nose or throat. It invades the cells there and sets about doing what viruses do best, trying to produce more of its kind and send them forth into the world to infect other cells and produce even more viruses. To do this the virus must hijack machinery and equipment within the cell. This machinery is reserved for the cell's privileged use and the hijacking may set off alarms and alert the body's defense (or immune) system.
As the virus multiplies the cell may rupture and millions of new viruses spill into the bloodstream or nearby tissues. This release of new viruses may also alert the immune system's equivalent of 'customs and immigration', ever watchful for viruses without visas. The release of new viruses causes the cell to die and the immune 'homicide squad' may also be called.
The alerted immune system then mobilizes to seek and destroy all viruses, bits of viruses, and hijacked, infected cells. This is usually achieved rapidly and the illness rarely lasts much longer than a few days. This response almost invariably results in swelling of the infected areas as the battle rages between the immune system and the infecting virus.
Once a virus has been vanquished the immune system 'remembers' it, and is able to recognize its closer relatives, for a time. It is still possible for a not‑so‑closely‑related virus to cause another cold soon afterwards and the memory eventually fades so that the same virus may again cause a cold some time in the future.
You can spread a cold to others because as you breath out virus particles may leave your nasal area in the air or within tiny fluid droplets. If someone near you breaths in some of the virus particles the whole process may start afresh in their nasal passages.
How can a cold affect flying? The two features of a cold that are most important to aviators are the overflow of new viruses into the bloodstream and the swelling of nose and throat tissues.
The first of these, the release of new viruses from their host cell into the body is often called the 'viraemic phase' (4). This viraemic phase usually results in the headaches and general feeling of tiredness, lethargy, and unwellness (5) that is usually associated with a cold.
Anything that makes you feel tired and unwell is a distraction from flying and may well impair your decision making abilities at a critical moment. The viraemic phase of a cold is no exception and our mental and physical performance is always impaired. As aircrew we can ill afford any impairment of our performance that may affect our safety and that of the craft we fly and those that choose to fly with us.
As the tissues lining the nasal area swell the tiny openings to the ears (eustachian tubes) and the sinuses (ostia) become narrowed and may close over. Closure of these small tissue lined tubes makes ear and sinus pressure equalization difficult or impossible. Inability to equalize our ears and sinuses during ascent or descent may result in pain and tissue damage. The term barotrauma (as in barometer) is used to refer to these pressure related tissue damage.
The pain of sinus and ear barotrauma can be of crippling intensity leaving the sufferer unable to devote attention to the task of flying. The tissue damage, which could include rupture of the ear‑drums or the filling of a sinus with blood, may adversely affect our short and long term "fitness to fly". It's really not worth the risk.
What can you do? The first action for an aviator with a cold is the simplest but often the most difficult. When you have a cold you are most certainly not fit to fly. It's as simple as that, the risks are just not worth it. To fly whilst suffering a cold a professional aviator would be exposing his passengers, cargo, and employer to an added, avoidable risk while a sports aviator exposes himself, his passengers, and his craft to the same unnecessary risks.
As an air passenger you are still exposed to the same risks during a cold. It is unlikely, though, that as a passenger you could cause the wreck of an aircraft or the injury of others. Should you choose to travel by air as a passenger while you've got a cold there's a few things you might find useful knowing.
There is no cure (yet) for the common cold! Our immune system is the only avenue we have for ridding our body of the cold virus. To function at its peak our immune system must be maintained by a sensible and well balanced diet. Large doses of vitamins or mineral supplements do not cure the common cold. The body also requires adequate rest for its immune system to remain in peak condition.
Antibiotics do not cure colds! Viruses are immune to antibiotics. It is only when the cold is likely to become complicated with a second, overlapping bacterial infection that antibiotics have any place at all in the management of colds. Anyone healthy enough to maintain an aircrew licence is extremely unlikely to suffer any bacterial complications of a common cold.
It is only if the cold symptoms are sufficiently severe that medication has any place in the treatment of a cold. Even then the only effect that medicine will have is some relief of the symptoms. Medication can't cure or dispel a cold. Aspirin (6) or Paracetamol (7) will help to relieve a headache or sore throat and may settle a mild fever. Decongestants (8) will reduce some of the swelling of the nasal lining tissues and may make it easier to equalize the ears or sinuses. It may also be possible to relieve an irritating cough with a cough mixture or tablets.
Conclusion. a.. A COLD IS AN UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION CAUSED BY ANY OF A LARGE NUMBER OF VIRUSES.
b.. THERE IS NO CURE FOR A COLD, THE BODY'S IMMUNE SYSTEM MUST BE ALLOWED TO FIGHT THE INFECTION.
c.. ADEQUATE REST AND A SENSIBLE DIET ARE THE BEST WAYS TO HELP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM.
d.. FLYING WITH A COLD IS JUST NOT WORTH THE RISK
This article was originally published as: “It's Only A Cold!” in the AOPA (Australia) Magazine, Vol. 44, No. 9, September 1991. Comments should be directed to the author, Dr. Dougal Watson ‑ dxw@ozemail.com.au
From the Flight Surgeon:
"YES and NO"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
“SUPER” PENICILLIN - reports of antibiotic-resistant bacteria have been plaguing us for years. But now there is some good news - scientists at the University of Limerick in Ireland have improved the penicillin molecules. When resistant bacteria release the enzymes that zap the old penicillin, the new penicillin moves in to destroy the bacteria. “It’s what we call a checkmate strategy,” says Timothy Smyth, PH.D., the research leader. Human trials should begin in about two years. Men’s Health 3/99.
THE JOY OF SOY, PART II ‑ researchers are learning more about how soy products protect against cancer. According to a laboratory study at the University of Southern California, a soy compound called genistein suppresses proteins that help cancer cells survive attacks by the immune system. Men's Health 7/98.
MORE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE - by now, you know the basic benefits of regular exercising. But recently released long-term studies have yielded quite a few additional benefits not previously considered.
Immune response - aerobic exercise raises the immune system’s ability to recognize invading bacteria and viruses. Moderate exercise in any form for 30 to 60 minutes is ideal - what matters is intensity and duration. However, after 90 minutes at high intensity, the body releases stress hormones that push the odds of illness in the other direction, decreasing the body’s disease-fighting capability.
Increased metabolism - strength training builds muscle mass, which raises resting metabolic rate. Besides burning calories during exercise, strength training increases the basic metabolic rate throughout the day.
Stress reduction - researchers have found that just 20 minutes of low-intensity exercise can reduce stress and anxiety for over two hours.
Increased cranial activity - English researchers have found an increase in ideas and creative thinking among regular exercisers.
Decreased appetite - mild to moderate exercise does not stimulate hunger, and intense exercise may actually suppress appetite for 15 to 30 minutes.
Decrease cholesterol - in a study of 26 men with elevated cholesterol, a 350-calorie workout on a stationary cycle at moderate intensity immediately lowered total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. Aerobic exercise at least every other day seems to keep these benefits over a long-term period. Men’s Health 3/99.
IT'S ONLY A COLD ! By Dr. Dougal Watson (submitted by Captain Paul Christiansen)
So your throat is sore, your nose running, and your head throbbing as if to burst. You can't help speaking with a characteristic nasal twang causing friends and colleagues alike to comment or ask "Got a cold have we ?". Between coughs and sniffles you're forced to reply "Yes, but it's not a problem. It's only a little cold, I should be over it in a couple of days !".
This is a familiar story around most homes and workplaces and indeed a cold usually isn't much of a problem. The situation could be very different if, however, you plan to travel in an aircraft while suffering from this usually inconsequential ailment.
I'd like to tell you a little bit about colds, what they are, what they do to your body, and most importantly how these effects can alter your suitability to pilot an aircraft. This should allow you to make an informed decision, the next time you've got a cold, concerning your fitness to fly.
A cold is proper cause for taking the responsible action of voluntarily and temporarily grounding yourself from flying. I've suffered the pain and distress of bilateral haemotympanum (that's bleeding into the ear drums of both ears, the stage before perforation or rupture of the eardrums) during an aerobatic spin sequence when, unknowingly, I was brewing a cold. I've also seen usually stout military aircrew reduced to tears of pain during descent because having a cold rendered them unable to clear the pressure in their facial sinuses(1). Although a minor ailment to most folk a cold is a potential disaster to aviators (and those that fly with us).
What is a cold ? A cold is an infection, caused by any one of a hundred or so related rhinoviruses (2). It usually takes one or two days for a cold to incubate or brew once you've caught it.
The first symptoms you notice are usually tiredness and irritability along with a tickley, scratchy throat, blocked or runny nose, and a mild headache. The runny nose (rhinorrhoea) usually increases over the next couple of days and then settles rather rapidly as the whole illness resolves. Bouts of sneezing may also occur. A fever is unusual during the common cold. A small number of people (around 1 ‑ 2%) will develop bronchitis at the same time and have a cough that produces quantities of sputum (phlegm).
Most of us use the word cold in reference to any illness or infection of the nose, throat, ears, and lungs that involves a runny nose or mild cough. Many other viruses (3) are also able to cause diseases similar to the common cold. The illness caused by these other viruses is often more severe than a common cold and may involve quite marked cough, fever, sore throat, or even pneumonia.
The common cold, along with any of the above mentioned viral upper respiratory tract infections, is often more severe in children.
You won't be surprised to hear that colds are more common in the winter and autumn. Nobody is certain why this is the case but it may have something to do with the increased time we all spend indoors close to other people during the colder months.
For the purpose of this article I'm not going to distinguish between all of these related but different illnesses. I'm simply going to use the word 'cold' to denote any, or all, of the above ‑ after all they have similar relevance to aviators.
What happens during the infection? The offending virus usually gains access to your body through the lining tissues of your upper airways, especially the nose or throat. It invades the cells there and sets about doing what viruses do best, trying to produce more of its kind and send them forth into the world to infect other cells and produce even more viruses. To do this the virus must hijack machinery and equipment within the cell. This machinery is reserved for the cell's privileged use and the hijacking may set off alarms and alert the body's defense (or immune) system.
As the virus multiplies the cell may rupture and millions of new viruses spill into the bloodstream or nearby tissues. This release of new viruses may also alert the immune system's equivalent of 'customs and immigration', ever watchful for viruses without visas. The release of new viruses causes the cell to die and the immune 'homicide squad' may also be called.
The alerted immune system then mobilizes to seek and destroy all viruses, bits of viruses, and hijacked, infected cells. This is usually achieved rapidly and the illness rarely lasts much longer than a few days. This response almost invariably results in swelling of the infected areas as the battle rages between the immune system and the infecting virus.
Once a virus has been vanquished the immune system 'remembers' it, and is able to recognize its closer relatives, for a time. It is still possible for a not‑so‑closely‑related virus to cause another cold soon afterwards and the memory eventually fades so that the same virus may again cause a cold some time in the future.
You can spread a cold to others because as you breath out virus particles may leave your nasal area in the air or within tiny fluid droplets. If someone near you breaths in some of the virus particles the whole process may start afresh in their nasal passages.
How can a cold affect flying? The two features of a cold that are most important to aviators are the overflow of new viruses into the bloodstream and the swelling of nose and throat tissues.
The first of these, the release of new viruses from their host cell into the body is often called the 'viraemic phase' (4). This viraemic phase usually results in the headaches and general feeling of tiredness, lethargy, and unwellness (5) that is usually associated with a cold.
Anything that makes you feel tired and unwell is a distraction from flying and may well impair your decision making abilities at a critical moment. The viraemic phase of a cold is no exception and our mental and physical performance is always impaired. As aircrew we can ill afford any impairment of our performance that may affect our safety and that of the craft we fly and those that choose to fly with us.
As the tissues lining the nasal area swell the tiny openings to the ears (eustachian tubes) and the sinuses (ostia) become narrowed and may close over. Closure of these small tissue lined tubes makes ear and sinus pressure equalization difficult or impossible. Inability to equalize our ears and sinuses during ascent or descent may result in pain and tissue damage. The term barotrauma (as in barometer) is used to refer to these pressure related tissue damage.
The pain of sinus and ear barotrauma can be of crippling intensity leaving the sufferer unable to devote attention to the task of flying. The tissue damage, which could include rupture of the ear‑drums or the filling of a sinus with blood, may adversely affect our short and long term "fitness to fly". It's really not worth the risk.
What can you do? The first action for an aviator with a cold is the simplest but often the most difficult. When you have a cold you are most certainly not fit to fly. It's as simple as that, the risks are just not worth it. To fly whilst suffering a cold a professional aviator would be exposing his passengers, cargo, and employer to an added, avoidable risk while a sports aviator exposes himself, his passengers, and his craft to the same unnecessary risks.
As an air passenger you are still exposed to the same risks during a cold. It is unlikely, though, that as a passenger you could cause the wreck of an aircraft or the injury of others. Should you choose to travel by air as a passenger while you've got a cold there's a few things you might find useful knowing.
There is no cure (yet) for the common cold! Our immune system is the only avenue we have for ridding our body of the cold virus. To function at its peak our immune system must be maintained by a sensible and well balanced diet. Large doses of vitamins or mineral supplements do not cure the common cold. The body also requires adequate rest for its immune system to remain in peak condition.
Antibiotics do not cure colds! Viruses are immune to antibiotics. It is only when the cold is likely to become complicated with a second, overlapping bacterial infection that antibiotics have any place at all in the management of colds. Anyone healthy enough to maintain an aircrew licence is extremely unlikely to suffer any bacterial complications of a common cold.
It is only if the cold symptoms are sufficiently severe that medication has any place in the treatment of a cold. Even then the only effect that medicine will have is some relief of the symptoms. Medication can't cure or dispel a cold. Aspirin (6) or Paracetamol (7) will help to relieve a headache or sore throat and may settle a mild fever. Decongestants (8) will reduce some of the swelling of the nasal lining tissues and may make it easier to equalize the ears or sinuses. It may also be possible to relieve an irritating cough with a cough mixture or tablets.
Conclusion. a.. A COLD IS AN UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION CAUSED BY ANY OF A LARGE NUMBER OF VIRUSES.
b.. THERE IS NO CURE FOR A COLD, THE BODY'S IMMUNE SYSTEM MUST BE ALLOWED TO FIGHT THE INFECTION.
c.. ADEQUATE REST AND A SENSIBLE DIET ARE THE BEST WAYS TO HELP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM.
d.. FLYING WITH A COLD IS JUST NOT WORTH THE RISK
This article was originally published as: “It's Only A Cold!” in the AOPA (Australia) Magazine, Vol. 44, No. 9, September 1991. Comments should be directed to the author, Dr. Dougal Watson ‑ dxw@ozemail.com.au
From the Flight Surgeon:
"YES and NO"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
Monday, February 1, 1999
Health News
CROSSFEED 2-99
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
SUNBURN FIRST AID - popping two aspirin right away, then two more every 4 hours from the first 12 hours can actually lessen the severity of the burn by blocking prostaglandin, the hormone-like chemical your body produces that does most of the damage to skin cells. Then applying cool tap-water compresses or taking a cool bath for about 20 minutes three or four times a day will minimize pain and decrease swelling. Adding petroleum jelly that is hydrated helps restore moisture to your skin.
Finally, drop that can of “Solarcaine.” Dermatologists don’t like Solarcaine, which can produce an allergic reaction in some people if used repeatedly on large patches of skin. Instead, use a 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment twice a day to reduce redness and inflammation, or use a pure aloe-vera jelly to moisturize and soothe skin. Men’s Health 1/98.
VITAMIN E IS FOR PROSTATE - a recently published Finnish study of middle-aged men showed a 32 percent lower risk of prostate cancer by taking 50 I.U. of vitamin E every day for five to eight years. Another recent study shows that the body absorbs natural vitamin E supplements twice as well as from synthetic sources. Natural supplements are labeled d-alpha-tocopherol; synthetics are “dl”. Men’s Health 7/98.
EXERCISE OVEREXERTION MAY CAUSE HEARING LOSS - studies show that excessive weight lifting or exercise overexertion may damage inner-ear membranes, causing hearing and balance problems. Prevent this potential trouble by exhaling during muscle contractions. Men’s Health 3/99.
THE DANGERS OF “OVER-THE-COUNTER” (OTC) PAIN RELIEF - the National Kidney Foundation reviewed 750 studies on how OTC pain relievers affect the kidneys. After their review, the committee issued several recommendations. First, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, Nuprin), naproxen sodium (Aleve), and ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Actron) should be taken for the shortest possible time and in the smallest effective dosage. Second, combination analgesics, such as Excedrin, which contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, should be limited to prescription use. Finally, explicit warnings about the possible kidney dangers of these products should appear on their package inserts.
In the process of reducing inflammation and pain, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and ketoprofen (also called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs) inhibit the formation of prostaglandins, which aid blood flow to the kidneys, thereby enhancing their filtering function. Without prostaglandins, the kidneys can’t do their job effectively. Chronic use of NSAIDs can make the kidneys work harder over time, leading to damage and even failure. In addition, the muscle damage and dehydration that comes from exercising and sweating with a number of tablets rattling around inside you can exacerbate this situation. If you take these products occasionally for headaches or muscle pain, there’s no need to worry. But taking 6 to 8 tablets a day for a number of years appears to put the kidneys at great risk.
As far as exercise, the study’s leader says not to take any of these drugs prior to a workout that will last for more than 30 to 45 minutes - “You shouldn’t be on a drug that could adversely affect kidney function while you’re exercising vigorously.” Aspirin and acetaminophen (which is not an NSAID), when taken alone and as directed, don’t pose a risk to the kidneys.
Acetaminophen taken with any alcohol can cause liver damage. As few as 6 to 8 tablets may result in liver damage, and just 4 to 6 taken by someone who also consumes 2 to 3 alcoholic drinks daily can harm the liver. The liver can break down just so much acetaminophen daily, but when that amount is exceeded, then the liver moves to another pathway of breakdown - and the by-product of that pathway is toxic.
Glutathione is the product that clears acetaminophen and alcohol out of the blood. A regular drinker always has some alcohol in his system, so most of the glutathione is occupied getting rid of the alcohol. The problem comes when acetaminophen is consumed with the alcohol - there is not enough glutathione to handle the drug, so there is potential liver damage.
Finally there are special concerns for athletes who use OTC pain-relievers. The actual anti-inflammatory effect may be minimal - the improved function they experience may be primarily due to the painkilling effect of the drug. Some physicians feel that taking such drugs may actually prolong athletic injury by masking pain that would otherwise prompt one to curtail a workout and rest.
An injured muscle tendon or ligament goes through three phases of healing. The first is the inflammatory phase, in which you have immediate damage to tissue. The second is the repair and regeneration state, and the third is the maturation phase. In a chronic injury, the drug might not allow the body to go through these phases on a timely basis. Men’s Health 7/98.
ELIMINATE UNNECESSARY PROSTATE BIOPSIES - if your PSA level is between 4 and 10 nanograms per milliliter, your doctor may likely perform a prostate biopsy. But there is a 75 percent chance you don’t have cancer. To reduce unnecessary biopsies, the FDA approved the Hybritech Free PSA test. The rest determines how much PSA in your blood is free, or unbound to protein. If the count is at least 25 percent, it is unlikely you have cancer. In a study of 773 men ages 50 to 75, the Free PSA test diagnosed 95 percent of the men with cancer. No other free-PSA test can make that claim. For more information, call 888-880-0518. Men’s Health 7/98.
GERMS KILLING SPERMS? - bacterial infections may be a more common cause of infertility than previously thought. In a study presented at a meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, researchers isolated two types of bacteria from infertile men’s semen and introduced them into healthy sperm samples. Within 3 hours, 40 percent of the sperm were unable to swim. Infertile men could benefit from specific testing to rule out this type of infection. Infected men could receive antibiotics to help restore sperm function. Men’s Health 3/99.
REDUCING KIDNEY STONE RISK - kidney stones are crystallized mineral salts that are not removed in your urine. To help pass these salts and potential stones:
1. Eat more potassium - dietary potassium has been more protective than any other nutrient. Potatoes, cantaloupe, bananas, and lima beans are good sources of potassium.
2. Drink until your urine runs clear - drinking 8 or more glasses of liquid daily can flush out waste products that produce kidney stones - caffeinated and alcoholic beverages count, too.
3. Lemonade helps - lemons contain citrate, a chemical that may stoop kidney stones from forming. Powdered mixes that contain potassium citrate should protect just as well as the fresh-squeezed drink.
4. Skim milk also - certain foods, such as wheat bran, chocolate, spinach, beans, rhubarb, beets, and nuts, are high in oxalate, an acid that help form stones. But calcium consumed along with these foods stops the oxalate from reaching the kidneys. Men’s Health 11/98.
THE JOY OF SOY, PART II ‑ researchers are learning more about how soy products protect against cancer. According to a laboratory study at the University of Southern California, a soy compound called genistein suppresses proteins that help cancer cells survive attacks by the immune system. Men's Health 7/98.
FLAXSEED A DAY TO KEEP THE DR. AWAY - recent news has several popular alternative medicine gurus, including Dr. Andrew Weil (author of best-seller Eight Weeks to Optimum Health) and Dr. Dean Ornish (who’s low-fat/high fiber diet has received good results at stopping and reversing heart damage) touting the benefits of flaxseed oil.
Flax is extraordinarily rich in plant estrogens called lignans, containing 75 to 800 times as much as other grain and vegetable sources. Like the better-known plant estrogens in soy, lignans are believed to lower cancer risk by blocking some effects of the estrogen your body naturally produces. These plant hormones are so similar to the human version that they attach to breast cells in females and prevent the body’s own estrogen from attaching. Unlike body-produced estrogen, though, they don’t stimulate cancerous breast cells to grow.
Lignans also boost production of a substance that attaches to human estrogen and helps remove it from the body. Lignans also act as antioxidants, so researchers think they could protect healthy cells from free radical damage.
Flaxseeds also contain alpha-linolenic acid, the plant world’s version of the omega-3 fatty acids that make fish oil a potent heart protector. Like fish oil, the omega-3s in flaxseed help prevent blood clots that might lead to heart attacks, and flaxseed is a good source of soluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol.
Most health food stores and some supermarkets sell the oil, which you can use in salad dressings. But you can’t cook with it (heat makes it rancid), and in any case, the process of turning seeds into oil removes both lignans and fiber. Flaxseeds are the best choice, and may be purchased in bulk-item bins at health food stores. Two tablespoons a day is plenty. It can be sprinkled on cereal or casseroles, or ground into a powder and added to juice or smoothies or added to bread or muffin recipes. Health 9/98.
SUGAR SUBSTITUTE - there is a new sugar substitute coming on the market soon. This sweetener is made from sugar and is called sucralose. Sucralose is chemically altered sugar that slips through the body undigested. That cuts out the calories but seems to leave the taste intact. In one study, volunteers were nearly as likely to say that products made with sucralose had a sweet taste “like sugar” as they were to say the same about genuine sugar-based versions. Most said that sucralose tasted “clean”, without an unpleasant aftertaste.
Sucralose will be marketed as “Splenda” and will be introduced initially as the sweetener in Diet RC Cola and Diet Veryfine juice drinks. Tabletop packets should follow in a year or so. Sucralose could show up in everything from baked goods to chewing gum. This product had been tested for over 15 years in animal and human trials, with no adverse results noted to date. Unlike sugar, sucralose doesn’t cause cavities and doesn’t affect blood-glucose levels, making it another acceptable sugar substitute for diabetics. Consumer Reports on Health 9/98.
COLA DRINKS MAY HARM BONES - drinking large amounts of fructose changes how the body metabolizes the minerals responsible for healthy bones. In a study, test subjects consumed five cans of cola every day for three months. At the end of the study, the subjects had lost about 10 percent more phosphorus through their urine than normal, and had absorbed less calcium. Men’s Health 11/98.
MILK CONSUMPTION MAY LOWER COLON CANCER RISK - recent studies indicate that certain compounds in milk may prevent colon cancer, the second most fatal type of cancer among Americans. A study published in the journal Cancer Research found that purified milk compounds, known as sphingolipids, suppressed the development of malignant tumors in mice and reduced the number of lesions that mark the early stages of colon cancer. Calcium and other components, including vitamin D, may also be involved. Men's Health 7/98.
GETTING FULL PROTECTION - another full-protection sun screen ingredient has entered the market. The chemical avobenzone (aka Parsol 1789) absorbs both UVB and UVA rays as effectively as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Men’s Fitness 8/98.
WALK THIS WAY, PLEASE - if you have knee problems, part of the problem may stem from your walking stride. According to the American Journal of Sports Medicine, many athletes with knee-ligament problems tend to hyper extend their knees when they walk, which puts stress on the knee joint and can contribute to knee instability. A physiologically correct gait has the knee slightly bent before each step. Men’s Fitness 2/99.
YOUR FO WILL THANK YOU, TOO - a study from the University of Minnesota suggests that bacteria found in dental plaque may cause cardiac damage. When researchers injected rabbits with certain streptococcus bacteria present in plaque, the rabbits soon demonstrated faster heart and breathing rates, and abnormal electrocardiograms. The bacteria seem to cause blood platelets to form dangerous clots in arteries. All the more reason to keep your teeth clean and see a dentist regularly. Men’s Health 7/98.
BRAVE NEW WORLD - new cancer treatments on the near horizon include two new drugs, angiostatin and endostatin, which squelch cancer in mice by throttling the blood supply that feeds tumors. If the drugs continue to show promise in animal studies, human trials will be next.
Also, a new cavity fighter may be here soon. Dentists have long known that saliva helps to ward off cavities. Now scientists have decoded saliva’s secrets to create Cavistat, a compound that may be an even better guard than fluoride. Like saliva, Cavistat neutralizes acids that eat holes in enamel and washes teeth with minerals that repair the damage. Cavistat will soon be available in gum, mouthwash, and toothpaste. Health 1/99.
From the Flight Surgeon:
"NO, IT AIN’T! (NECESSARILY SO)"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
This month I’d like us to continue taking a look at those medical conditions that the Feds consider “disqualifying”. Remember, I said that this term means that issuance of a medical certificate may or may not be issued depending upon circumstances:
“Vertigo” is in this class. Acute bacterial or viral vertigo is ok. A serious neurologically-based chronic vertigo is not ok. “Glaucoma” is ok if well controlled and there has been no extensive damage to the optic nerve.
Now let’s continue with a few other problems in the “disqualifying” category. “Hypertension” - the acceptable levels for blood pressure are said to be in the range of 155/95. The 155 refers to the highest pressure achieved in the heart at the top of the heart’s ejection stroke - the pumping action that delivers blood throughout the body - the big “squeeze”. The bottom number (95) refers to the highest pressure attained in the heart as it fills getting ready to force the blood out into the system with the ejection stroke. So far; so good. If a guy’s pressure is consistently above these values, then his Doc should probably act. If the guy’s BP is quite high, his Doc may start him on some meds before giving him the good news about quitting the smokes, no more watching TV football with a 12-pack of Bud on board. In order to obtain an issuance, the airman is required to submit a family and personal history, lab work and EKG. This “check-up stuff” only represents taking good care of you on the part of your Doc. Additionally, your Doc will indicate that your pressure is under control and stable. Occasionally, I’m asked if there’s a list of “approved” meds used to control blood pressure. It’s easier for me to name six that are usually not approved. These are very rarely used and I have never run in a case that couldn’t be controlled with approved meds. When in doubt, call your AME. Finding and controlling elevated blood pressures is a good idea. Much better than continuing to hammer your kidneys, heart, blood vessels to the head, etc., etc.
“Kidney stones” - these little darlings come in all sizes from “gravel” to “rocks”. Some are symptom-free, while others will have a guy walking on the ceiling. From the F.A.A.’s point of view, if two years have passed since you have “cast the first stone” with no further episodes since, your AME may issue. If not that much time has passed, then a simple X-ray showing no stones present will suffice. I’ve not ever had a kidney stone, but since I like to spend time out away in relatively remote areas, I would feel more comfortable having periodic X-rays to rule out stones. Not often, but every once in a while when, for whatever reason, I felt like doing so just to be sure.
So we continue to go down the list of “disqualifying: medical conditions. So far we’ve talked about vertigo, glaucoma, hypertension, and kidney stones. You should be getting the idea that what is needed to ok these problems is control and proving that there is no super serious problem underlying them.
Personally, I think it’s a benefit to uncover these problems and control them, although guys in denial would (and do) disagree. I would still prefer the trouble of checking oil levels to “puking” an engine!
Best,
Joe
From the Flight Surgeon:
"YES and NO"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
I will continue our discussion of “disqualifying medical conditions”. “Disqualifying” means that the issuance of a medical may or may not be possible depending upon circumstances. Understand the “disqualifying” is definitely not an absolute NO, not by any manner or means.
We have previously discussed: 1. Vertigo 2. Glaucoma 3. Hypertension 4. Kidney Stones. Let’s take a look some others in question - strokes. More formally these are called Cerebro (brain) Vascular (blood supply) Accidents “CVA”. The most common of these are due to hemorrhage or interrupted blood supply to the brain. It would be too crude to think of a toilet being plugged up or just suddenly overflowing so I won’t use that analogy. Obviously either event - excessive bleeding or actual blockage will result in damage to brain tissue with resultant loss of function - “mental”, “physical”, i.e. - speech, movement, thought processes, etc. Like a lot of other problems these vascular accidents can occur with varying degrees of severity. Underlying problems may be high blood pressure, diabetes, arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) or any situation that may form a blood clot that could “cut loose”. In terms of flying all this becomes a matter of how much actual damage was done. Is the extent of the damage stable? How likely is a recurrence?
I mentioned before these problems come in varying degrees. There is a type of one of these “accidents” that merits our closer attention - the “TIA”. The acronym stands for “Transient Ischemic (decreased blood supply) Attack”. In these cases the extent of the damage and the length of time involved during the event is limited comparatively speaking. Maybe they could be called “baby strokes” but strokes they are just the same! If we are to get a medical issued, we’re going to have to wait for two years after the event and get a clearance after that time by a neurologist that will be done in depth. When you realize that the T.I.A.’s tend to recur and can progress to a bigger and worse event you probably won’t be too enthusiastic about having a guy with this kind of history flying your dear, sweet old mother to the Payson rodeo any time soon. On the plus side is the thought that while the TIA guy is being checked out, something may turn up that can be fixed for him. Next time I thought we’d continue some other subject on the “disqualifying” list.
Best,
Joe
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
SUNBURN FIRST AID - popping two aspirin right away, then two more every 4 hours from the first 12 hours can actually lessen the severity of the burn by blocking prostaglandin, the hormone-like chemical your body produces that does most of the damage to skin cells. Then applying cool tap-water compresses or taking a cool bath for about 20 minutes three or four times a day will minimize pain and decrease swelling. Adding petroleum jelly that is hydrated helps restore moisture to your skin.
Finally, drop that can of “Solarcaine.” Dermatologists don’t like Solarcaine, which can produce an allergic reaction in some people if used repeatedly on large patches of skin. Instead, use a 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment twice a day to reduce redness and inflammation, or use a pure aloe-vera jelly to moisturize and soothe skin. Men’s Health 1/98.
VITAMIN E IS FOR PROSTATE - a recently published Finnish study of middle-aged men showed a 32 percent lower risk of prostate cancer by taking 50 I.U. of vitamin E every day for five to eight years. Another recent study shows that the body absorbs natural vitamin E supplements twice as well as from synthetic sources. Natural supplements are labeled d-alpha-tocopherol; synthetics are “dl”. Men’s Health 7/98.
EXERCISE OVEREXERTION MAY CAUSE HEARING LOSS - studies show that excessive weight lifting or exercise overexertion may damage inner-ear membranes, causing hearing and balance problems. Prevent this potential trouble by exhaling during muscle contractions. Men’s Health 3/99.
THE DANGERS OF “OVER-THE-COUNTER” (OTC) PAIN RELIEF - the National Kidney Foundation reviewed 750 studies on how OTC pain relievers affect the kidneys. After their review, the committee issued several recommendations. First, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, Nuprin), naproxen sodium (Aleve), and ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Actron) should be taken for the shortest possible time and in the smallest effective dosage. Second, combination analgesics, such as Excedrin, which contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, should be limited to prescription use. Finally, explicit warnings about the possible kidney dangers of these products should appear on their package inserts.
In the process of reducing inflammation and pain, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and ketoprofen (also called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs) inhibit the formation of prostaglandins, which aid blood flow to the kidneys, thereby enhancing their filtering function. Without prostaglandins, the kidneys can’t do their job effectively. Chronic use of NSAIDs can make the kidneys work harder over time, leading to damage and even failure. In addition, the muscle damage and dehydration that comes from exercising and sweating with a number of tablets rattling around inside you can exacerbate this situation. If you take these products occasionally for headaches or muscle pain, there’s no need to worry. But taking 6 to 8 tablets a day for a number of years appears to put the kidneys at great risk.
As far as exercise, the study’s leader says not to take any of these drugs prior to a workout that will last for more than 30 to 45 minutes - “You shouldn’t be on a drug that could adversely affect kidney function while you’re exercising vigorously.” Aspirin and acetaminophen (which is not an NSAID), when taken alone and as directed, don’t pose a risk to the kidneys.
Acetaminophen taken with any alcohol can cause liver damage. As few as 6 to 8 tablets may result in liver damage, and just 4 to 6 taken by someone who also consumes 2 to 3 alcoholic drinks daily can harm the liver. The liver can break down just so much acetaminophen daily, but when that amount is exceeded, then the liver moves to another pathway of breakdown - and the by-product of that pathway is toxic.
Glutathione is the product that clears acetaminophen and alcohol out of the blood. A regular drinker always has some alcohol in his system, so most of the glutathione is occupied getting rid of the alcohol. The problem comes when acetaminophen is consumed with the alcohol - there is not enough glutathione to handle the drug, so there is potential liver damage.
Finally there are special concerns for athletes who use OTC pain-relievers. The actual anti-inflammatory effect may be minimal - the improved function they experience may be primarily due to the painkilling effect of the drug. Some physicians feel that taking such drugs may actually prolong athletic injury by masking pain that would otherwise prompt one to curtail a workout and rest.
An injured muscle tendon or ligament goes through three phases of healing. The first is the inflammatory phase, in which you have immediate damage to tissue. The second is the repair and regeneration state, and the third is the maturation phase. In a chronic injury, the drug might not allow the body to go through these phases on a timely basis. Men’s Health 7/98.
ELIMINATE UNNECESSARY PROSTATE BIOPSIES - if your PSA level is between 4 and 10 nanograms per milliliter, your doctor may likely perform a prostate biopsy. But there is a 75 percent chance you don’t have cancer. To reduce unnecessary biopsies, the FDA approved the Hybritech Free PSA test. The rest determines how much PSA in your blood is free, or unbound to protein. If the count is at least 25 percent, it is unlikely you have cancer. In a study of 773 men ages 50 to 75, the Free PSA test diagnosed 95 percent of the men with cancer. No other free-PSA test can make that claim. For more information, call 888-880-0518. Men’s Health 7/98.
GERMS KILLING SPERMS? - bacterial infections may be a more common cause of infertility than previously thought. In a study presented at a meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, researchers isolated two types of bacteria from infertile men’s semen and introduced them into healthy sperm samples. Within 3 hours, 40 percent of the sperm were unable to swim. Infertile men could benefit from specific testing to rule out this type of infection. Infected men could receive antibiotics to help restore sperm function. Men’s Health 3/99.
REDUCING KIDNEY STONE RISK - kidney stones are crystallized mineral salts that are not removed in your urine. To help pass these salts and potential stones:
1. Eat more potassium - dietary potassium has been more protective than any other nutrient. Potatoes, cantaloupe, bananas, and lima beans are good sources of potassium.
2. Drink until your urine runs clear - drinking 8 or more glasses of liquid daily can flush out waste products that produce kidney stones - caffeinated and alcoholic beverages count, too.
3. Lemonade helps - lemons contain citrate, a chemical that may stoop kidney stones from forming. Powdered mixes that contain potassium citrate should protect just as well as the fresh-squeezed drink.
4. Skim milk also - certain foods, such as wheat bran, chocolate, spinach, beans, rhubarb, beets, and nuts, are high in oxalate, an acid that help form stones. But calcium consumed along with these foods stops the oxalate from reaching the kidneys. Men’s Health 11/98.
THE JOY OF SOY, PART II ‑ researchers are learning more about how soy products protect against cancer. According to a laboratory study at the University of Southern California, a soy compound called genistein suppresses proteins that help cancer cells survive attacks by the immune system. Men's Health 7/98.
FLAXSEED A DAY TO KEEP THE DR. AWAY - recent news has several popular alternative medicine gurus, including Dr. Andrew Weil (author of best-seller Eight Weeks to Optimum Health) and Dr. Dean Ornish (who’s low-fat/high fiber diet has received good results at stopping and reversing heart damage) touting the benefits of flaxseed oil.
Flax is extraordinarily rich in plant estrogens called lignans, containing 75 to 800 times as much as other grain and vegetable sources. Like the better-known plant estrogens in soy, lignans are believed to lower cancer risk by blocking some effects of the estrogen your body naturally produces. These plant hormones are so similar to the human version that they attach to breast cells in females and prevent the body’s own estrogen from attaching. Unlike body-produced estrogen, though, they don’t stimulate cancerous breast cells to grow.
Lignans also boost production of a substance that attaches to human estrogen and helps remove it from the body. Lignans also act as antioxidants, so researchers think they could protect healthy cells from free radical damage.
Flaxseeds also contain alpha-linolenic acid, the plant world’s version of the omega-3 fatty acids that make fish oil a potent heart protector. Like fish oil, the omega-3s in flaxseed help prevent blood clots that might lead to heart attacks, and flaxseed is a good source of soluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol.
Most health food stores and some supermarkets sell the oil, which you can use in salad dressings. But you can’t cook with it (heat makes it rancid), and in any case, the process of turning seeds into oil removes both lignans and fiber. Flaxseeds are the best choice, and may be purchased in bulk-item bins at health food stores. Two tablespoons a day is plenty. It can be sprinkled on cereal or casseroles, or ground into a powder and added to juice or smoothies or added to bread or muffin recipes. Health 9/98.
SUGAR SUBSTITUTE - there is a new sugar substitute coming on the market soon. This sweetener is made from sugar and is called sucralose. Sucralose is chemically altered sugar that slips through the body undigested. That cuts out the calories but seems to leave the taste intact. In one study, volunteers were nearly as likely to say that products made with sucralose had a sweet taste “like sugar” as they were to say the same about genuine sugar-based versions. Most said that sucralose tasted “clean”, without an unpleasant aftertaste.
Sucralose will be marketed as “Splenda” and will be introduced initially as the sweetener in Diet RC Cola and Diet Veryfine juice drinks. Tabletop packets should follow in a year or so. Sucralose could show up in everything from baked goods to chewing gum. This product had been tested for over 15 years in animal and human trials, with no adverse results noted to date. Unlike sugar, sucralose doesn’t cause cavities and doesn’t affect blood-glucose levels, making it another acceptable sugar substitute for diabetics. Consumer Reports on Health 9/98.
COLA DRINKS MAY HARM BONES - drinking large amounts of fructose changes how the body metabolizes the minerals responsible for healthy bones. In a study, test subjects consumed five cans of cola every day for three months. At the end of the study, the subjects had lost about 10 percent more phosphorus through their urine than normal, and had absorbed less calcium. Men’s Health 11/98.
MILK CONSUMPTION MAY LOWER COLON CANCER RISK - recent studies indicate that certain compounds in milk may prevent colon cancer, the second most fatal type of cancer among Americans. A study published in the journal Cancer Research found that purified milk compounds, known as sphingolipids, suppressed the development of malignant tumors in mice and reduced the number of lesions that mark the early stages of colon cancer. Calcium and other components, including vitamin D, may also be involved. Men's Health 7/98.
GETTING FULL PROTECTION - another full-protection sun screen ingredient has entered the market. The chemical avobenzone (aka Parsol 1789) absorbs both UVB and UVA rays as effectively as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Men’s Fitness 8/98.
WALK THIS WAY, PLEASE - if you have knee problems, part of the problem may stem from your walking stride. According to the American Journal of Sports Medicine, many athletes with knee-ligament problems tend to hyper extend their knees when they walk, which puts stress on the knee joint and can contribute to knee instability. A physiologically correct gait has the knee slightly bent before each step. Men’s Fitness 2/99.
YOUR FO WILL THANK YOU, TOO - a study from the University of Minnesota suggests that bacteria found in dental plaque may cause cardiac damage. When researchers injected rabbits with certain streptococcus bacteria present in plaque, the rabbits soon demonstrated faster heart and breathing rates, and abnormal electrocardiograms. The bacteria seem to cause blood platelets to form dangerous clots in arteries. All the more reason to keep your teeth clean and see a dentist regularly. Men’s Health 7/98.
BRAVE NEW WORLD - new cancer treatments on the near horizon include two new drugs, angiostatin and endostatin, which squelch cancer in mice by throttling the blood supply that feeds tumors. If the drugs continue to show promise in animal studies, human trials will be next.
Also, a new cavity fighter may be here soon. Dentists have long known that saliva helps to ward off cavities. Now scientists have decoded saliva’s secrets to create Cavistat, a compound that may be an even better guard than fluoride. Like saliva, Cavistat neutralizes acids that eat holes in enamel and washes teeth with minerals that repair the damage. Cavistat will soon be available in gum, mouthwash, and toothpaste. Health 1/99.
From the Flight Surgeon:
"NO, IT AIN’T! (NECESSARILY SO)"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
This month I’d like us to continue taking a look at those medical conditions that the Feds consider “disqualifying”. Remember, I said that this term means that issuance of a medical certificate may or may not be issued depending upon circumstances:
“Vertigo” is in this class. Acute bacterial or viral vertigo is ok. A serious neurologically-based chronic vertigo is not ok. “Glaucoma” is ok if well controlled and there has been no extensive damage to the optic nerve.
Now let’s continue with a few other problems in the “disqualifying” category. “Hypertension” - the acceptable levels for blood pressure are said to be in the range of 155/95. The 155 refers to the highest pressure achieved in the heart at the top of the heart’s ejection stroke - the pumping action that delivers blood throughout the body - the big “squeeze”. The bottom number (95) refers to the highest pressure attained in the heart as it fills getting ready to force the blood out into the system with the ejection stroke. So far; so good. If a guy’s pressure is consistently above these values, then his Doc should probably act. If the guy’s BP is quite high, his Doc may start him on some meds before giving him the good news about quitting the smokes, no more watching TV football with a 12-pack of Bud on board. In order to obtain an issuance, the airman is required to submit a family and personal history, lab work and EKG. This “check-up stuff” only represents taking good care of you on the part of your Doc. Additionally, your Doc will indicate that your pressure is under control and stable. Occasionally, I’m asked if there’s a list of “approved” meds used to control blood pressure. It’s easier for me to name six that are usually not approved. These are very rarely used and I have never run in a case that couldn’t be controlled with approved meds. When in doubt, call your AME. Finding and controlling elevated blood pressures is a good idea. Much better than continuing to hammer your kidneys, heart, blood vessels to the head, etc., etc.
“Kidney stones” - these little darlings come in all sizes from “gravel” to “rocks”. Some are symptom-free, while others will have a guy walking on the ceiling. From the F.A.A.’s point of view, if two years have passed since you have “cast the first stone” with no further episodes since, your AME may issue. If not that much time has passed, then a simple X-ray showing no stones present will suffice. I’ve not ever had a kidney stone, but since I like to spend time out away in relatively remote areas, I would feel more comfortable having periodic X-rays to rule out stones. Not often, but every once in a while when, for whatever reason, I felt like doing so just to be sure.
So we continue to go down the list of “disqualifying: medical conditions. So far we’ve talked about vertigo, glaucoma, hypertension, and kidney stones. You should be getting the idea that what is needed to ok these problems is control and proving that there is no super serious problem underlying them.
Personally, I think it’s a benefit to uncover these problems and control them, although guys in denial would (and do) disagree. I would still prefer the trouble of checking oil levels to “puking” an engine!
Best,
Joe
From the Flight Surgeon:
"YES and NO"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
I will continue our discussion of “disqualifying medical conditions”. “Disqualifying” means that the issuance of a medical may or may not be possible depending upon circumstances. Understand the “disqualifying” is definitely not an absolute NO, not by any manner or means.
We have previously discussed: 1. Vertigo 2. Glaucoma 3. Hypertension 4. Kidney Stones. Let’s take a look some others in question - strokes. More formally these are called Cerebro (brain) Vascular (blood supply) Accidents “CVA”. The most common of these are due to hemorrhage or interrupted blood supply to the brain. It would be too crude to think of a toilet being plugged up or just suddenly overflowing so I won’t use that analogy. Obviously either event - excessive bleeding or actual blockage will result in damage to brain tissue with resultant loss of function - “mental”, “physical”, i.e. - speech, movement, thought processes, etc. Like a lot of other problems these vascular accidents can occur with varying degrees of severity. Underlying problems may be high blood pressure, diabetes, arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) or any situation that may form a blood clot that could “cut loose”. In terms of flying all this becomes a matter of how much actual damage was done. Is the extent of the damage stable? How likely is a recurrence?
I mentioned before these problems come in varying degrees. There is a type of one of these “accidents” that merits our closer attention - the “TIA”. The acronym stands for “Transient Ischemic (decreased blood supply) Attack”. In these cases the extent of the damage and the length of time involved during the event is limited comparatively speaking. Maybe they could be called “baby strokes” but strokes they are just the same! If we are to get a medical issued, we’re going to have to wait for two years after the event and get a clearance after that time by a neurologist that will be done in depth. When you realize that the T.I.A.’s tend to recur and can progress to a bigger and worse event you probably won’t be too enthusiastic about having a guy with this kind of history flying your dear, sweet old mother to the Payson rodeo any time soon. On the plus side is the thought that while the TIA guy is being checked out, something may turn up that can be fixed for him. Next time I thought we’d continue some other subject on the “disqualifying” list.
Best,
Joe
Friday, January 1, 1999
Health News
CROSSFEED 1-99
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
TRY FIBER TO LOSE WEIGHT - new research out of the USDA’s Human Nutrition Research Center shows that if you doubled your daily fiber intake from an average of 18 grams up to 36 grams, you would reduce the absorption of fat and protein from other foods by 130 calories per day. In one year that comes to 13 pounds of weight loss - without eating less or exercising. Also, the increased fiber intake lessens the risk of colon cancer. Men’s Health 1/98.
PMS CURE? - researchers, knowing that some PMS symptoms resemble those of severe calcium deficiency, wondered if calcium could tame the monthly monster. 466 PMS sufferers were recruited, half of them taking four 300-milligram calcium tablets a day (in two doses), and dummy pills to the other half. The women ranged in age from 18 to 45; some had mild symptoms and some severe, but all of them had consistently experienced PMS misery during the preceding year.
For three months the women kept diaries in which they recorded 17 PMS symptoms in four categories: pain, food cravings, mood changes, and water retention. During the first month the two groups differed little, but by the second menstrual cycle the calcium takers reported fewer signs of PMS. During the third cycle their symptoms had diminished overall by a whopping 48 percent. The antidepressant drugs that have been the strongest PMS treatment available reduce symptoms by only 32 to 44 percent.
The 1,200 mg dose used in this study is just a little above the government’s recommendation of 1,000 mg per day for women aged 19 to 50. While the study volunteers got their calcium from Tums, any supplement containing calcium carbonate will do. Researchers don’t know why the mineral works, but suspect low calcium levels cause the body to secrete PMS-causing hormones.
Calcium pills should be taken in several doses during the day - preferably at mealtimes - to ensure optimal absorption. Be sure to drink milk (preferably non-fat), as the vitamin D it contains will help your body hold onto more of the calcium you consume. Health 9/98.
PRESCRIPTION SHORTHAND TRANSLATED - here’s some of the doctor’s shorthand translated so you can understand better what he/she intends:
Rx - take tid - three times a day
ac - before meals qid - four times a day
pc - after meals prn - as needed
qh - every hour hs - at bedtime
bid - twice a day Health 9/98.
THE JOY OF SOY - Soy protein could actually help extend your lifespan. Soy is low in saturated fat and high in fiber, and soybeans contain all eight essential amino acids, significant B vitamins, zinc, calcium, and iron. Additionally, research indicates that soy - via certain phytoestrogens (weak estrogen-like substances made by plants) called isoflavones - lowers cholesterol, helps build bone and muscle, and may reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancers. Recent cancer research indicates that genistein, an isoflavone, is the compound in soy that blocks blood flow to tumors.
Researchers in Australia who fed test subjects a diet high in saturated fat found that those who consumed soy protein had less clogging in their arteries.
Unfortunately, many soy products lose phytoestrogens during processing; some, such as soy cheese, soy sauce and certain brands of soy burgers have no isoflavones at all. Tofu, soy milk, and soy nuts do have these natural chemicals, but amounts vary according to crop sources and recipes. The easiest and most efficient source for soy in your diet is to get soy protein isolate in powder-form (look for “Supro” on the label) at a health food store and add it to your favorite beverage, soup, or sauce. Smoothies are particularly adaptable: start with non-fat yogurt, add fruits of your choice and about two tablespoons (1 ounce) of “GeniSoy”, “Schiff Soy Protein”, or “Take Care”, or similar soy protein powder. Soy milk can be substituted for dairy milk in cereals and smoothies, and comes in orange, mocha, and chocolate flavors. Soybeans can be used in vegetarian burritos, soy flour used in baking goods, and soybean nuts are excellent for snacking.
In summary, roughly 25 grams a day of soy protein (with its naturally occurring isoflavones) is enough to lower LDL cholesterol by about ten percent in people who start out with an LDL above 160. Also, preliminary research indicates that soy or its isoflavones can reduces risk of breast or prostate cancer, osteoporosis, or possibly hot flashes in menopausal women. Lastly, women who have had breast cancer shouldn’t load up on soy protein or take isoflavone pills, as the plant-estrogens may actually increase the risk of further breast cancers. Prime Health & Fitness Fall/1998, Nutrition Action Healthletter 9/98, Men”s Health 6/98.
WEIGHT-LIFTING TURNS ON THE CALORIE “AFTERBURNER” - the calorie-burning potential of weight training is better than anyone suspected. At Appalachian State University physiologists asked 15 people to spend 30 minutes lifting barbells and then a week later, walking at about four miles an hour on a treadmill. During each workout the subjects expended the same amount of energy. But in the half hour after they finished lifting, they burned three times as many calories as they did after just walking without the weight training. Health 9/98.
DO IT IN THE BATHROOM? - “If you want to make a sandwich, I recommend doing it on top of the toilet seat,” says microbiologist Chuck Gerba. “It’s much safer than the kitchen counter top.”
Gerba and his colleagues at the University of Arizona sampled bacteria in 15 homes, taking swabs from 14 sites. The nastiest spots were in the kitchens: sinks, faucets, cutting boards, and refrigerator handles swarmed with bugs that can make people sick. Sponges and dishcloths were the worst, hosting a million times as many bacteria as did toilet seats.
Gerba suspects that most people know to use disinfectants in the bathroom, but rely on mere soap to clean the kitchen. And soap will wipe out neither viruses nor bacteria like salmonella and E. coli.
Happily, a little bleach banishes most bugs - up to 99.99 percent. Gerba advises using a solution of one part bleach to 16 parts water. Anything that has contact with food (like cutting boards, sponges, and dishcloths) should be disinfected daily; fill your sink with water, add bleach, and toss in the items to soak. Wash high-touch zones (like faucets and appliance handles) three times a week. Health 9/98.
USE THE NEGATIVE - those of you spending time in the weight room have undoubtedly been annoyed by the muscle-head who insists on dropping his weights at the end of his reps. Now, a report from Syracuse University shows that by letting gravity lower your weight plates for you, you’ll not only lose out on serious strength gains, but also plant the seed for future weakness.
Whether on a machine or using free weights, paying close attention to the negative (the lowering motion of the exercise) can increase strength gains by moving the weight slowly and under control in both directions. Prime Health & Fitness Fall/98.
BEATING GENETICS - genetics isn’t necessarily fate. Your longevity may depend more on your workout schedule than your grandparents’ life span. Scientists in Finland tracked the health and physical activity of 16,000 twins for 19 years. By the end of the study a twin who’d exercised for at least 30 minutes six times a month was 56 percent more likely to have outlived his or her sedentary twin. Even sporadic exercisers tend to outlast their idle twins. Health 9/98.
“Age is mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it don’t matter.” Satchel Paige
ASK MOM - if your mother took the antimiscarriage drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy - between 1938 and 1971 about 4.8 million women did - be sure to perform a monthly testicle self-test. A study found that men whose mothers took DES while pregnant developed testicular cysts three times more often than other men. The cysts, though benign, must be checked to rule out cancer. More info...call DES Action at 800-337-9288. Men’s Health 6/98.
BACTERIA MAY CAUSE KIDNEY STONES - some scientists suspect that newly discovered microbes called nanobacteria may be the cause of most kidney stones.
These slow-growing bacteria are far smaller than most. They seem to grow a hard, grayish-brown shell composed of a calcium-rich compound. Since most kidney stones are also made of calcium, the scientists theorize the painful pebbles might result from calcium crystals building up layer by layer atop the bacteria’s shell. To support their hypothesis, the researchers dissected 30 stones from patients. They found these microbes in every one.
These findings are very preliminary. However, if further research confirms that the bacteria are responsible for kidney stones, a course of antibiotics might prevent kidney stones from recurring. Health 10/98.
GRAPE JUICE MAY LOWER RISK OF HEART DISEASE - purple grape juice seems to have the same effect as red wine in reducing the risk of heart disease, according to a study presented at the America Heart Association’s 71st Scientific Sessions.
Intrigued by research showing lower rates of heart disease in people who drink one to two glasses of red wine per day, researchers studied purple grape juice to determine if it has similar effects.
“Alcohol is a potent inhibitor of the platelet aggregation, or blood clotting, that can lead to heart attack and stroke. But alcohol inhibits blood clots only at high levels in the blood - high enough to cause intoxication...we were interested in finding out how to get the benefits of clot inhibition seen with red wine, but without the intoxication effects of alcohol,” says Dr. Jane E. Freedman, M.D., assistant professor of medicine and pharmacology at Georgetown University Medical Center. Dr. Freedman studied blood platelets - cells in the blood that clump to form blood clots - in a solution containing purple grape juice and in “control” solutions that did not. Platelets in purple grape juice clotted about 30 percent less than did the controls and released three times more nitric oxide, a chemical that dilates, or widens, blood vessels and also serves as a powerful inhibitor of clotting because it keeps platelets from sticking together. Both effects of nitric oxide help reduce the likelihood that blood clots will block the arteries and cause a heart attack.
In addition, platelets in purple grape juice released 55 percent less super-oxide - one of the reactive oxygen molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals react with cholesterol, possibly making it more dangerous to blood vessels. Freedman says she decided to look for superoxide because it quickly inactivates the beneficial effects of nitric oxide. Researchers also tested the effects of a substance in grape juice called quercetin. Quercetin is one of a group of compounds called flavonoids, which are thought to have antioxidant properties. Significant amounts of flavonoids are found in onions, apples, tea, broccoli, berries, and red wine, with each of those items containing its own unique combination of flavonoids.
Freedman says the grapes used to make red wine and purple grape juice are often different from the red and white grapes at the grocery store. “Eating pitted purple grapes may not have the same effect as drinking purple grape juice because of the variety of grapes available and the concentration of flavonoids that results from juice processing.”
SMOKER’S AID - a Finnish study of thousands of male smokers revealed that daily 50 mg. doses of vitamin E reduced their risk of prostate cancer by one-third. Vitamin E was also found to reduce risk of colon-rectal and lung cancers. Men’s Fitness 8/98.
HIDDEN HEALTH HAZARD IN SNACKS - many cookies and crackers contain trans-fats, which may be as bad for you as the saturated variety. However, manufacturers aren’t required to give a figure for trans-fats in the nutritional information on the label. That’s why the saturated and unsaturated fat grams don’t always add up to the number for total fat. To see if a product has trans-fats, check the ingredients list, where they’ll appear as vegetable shortening or partially hydrogenated oil. Health 9/98.
EAT TO FIGHT FATIGUE - Alan M. Spira, M.D., medical director of the Travel Medicine Center, advises eating protein early in the day to increase the body’s production of catecholamines, organic compounds that keep you alert. Evening meals should be rich in carbohydrates, which enhance sleep by promoting serotonin synthesis. Of course, eating heavy-carb meals late in the evening may slow down your weight-loss efforts. Men’s Fitness 11/98.
IS THAT TAP WATER IN YOUR PERRIER? - according to the International Bottled Water Association, 25 percent of bottled waters for sale are from municipal sources...tap water. If you want to avoid paying for bottled tap water, look for labels that say spring, mineral, well, or artesian water. The Food and Drug Administration requires testing of all bottled water; bottlers that belongs to IBWA must meet higher purity standards than those set by the FDA - call 800-928-3711 for a list of brands. Health 9/98.
STRONG ABS = LESS BACK PROBLEMS - a recent U.S. Army study indicates that powerful abdominal muscles may greatly aid in reducing lower-back injuries. After giving 120 artillery soldiers the standard army fitness test of situps, push-ups, and a 2-mile run, researchers tracked their lower-body injuries during a year of field training. The 29 men who were able to do the most situps (73 or more in 2 minutes) were five times less likely to suffer lower-body injuries than the 31 guys who barely notched 50 situps. Surprisingly, the men who did the best in the pushup test and 2-mile run enjoyed no such protection.
“This study showed that weak abdominal or hip flexor muscles make you more prone to lower-body injuries,” states the study leader. Men’s Health 10/98.
From the Flight Surgeon: Part I
"Aye, Eye, Sir!"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
Let’s talk about some eye problems I don’t think we’ve discussed before.
1. Cataracts: This problem is described as a “clouding” of the lens due to the effects of excessive sunlight, disease, aging, or smoking. It seems that these factors cause the formation of clumps of proteins that independently reflect light giving rise to blurry vision, decreased color clarity and more sensitivity to glare. The problem is readily fixed by surgery, but I suggest a word of caution. According to my favorite eye guy, Dr. Robert Pinkert, the best indicator objectively is inability to get better than 20/50 with lenses. My guy says if the pressure of a cataract hampers your work, it doesn’t matter what the objective findings are. He also notes that if you are not hampered you don’t need the surgery. Not oddly enough, when you think it through, he points out the “cataract clinics” do more surgery than other eye specialists. You are to draw your own conclusions. That’s another reason “Pinky” is my favorite eye guy.
2. Glaucoma: What happens here is that because of inadequate “drainage”, there is increased pressure fluid within the eye that exerts pressure on and damages the optic nerve. By the time this is noted by the airman, the damage maybe irreversible. Testing with finger pressure, “air puffs”, or tonometry with a Shiotz device are definitely old-time stuff. Newer and abetter ways of measuring pressure within the eyeball are available and should be used. A direct “peek” at the optic nerve is of course, most important. Detected early enough, glaucoma can usually be adequately controlled, The idea is to have pressure check - maybe every three years after age 45, but that’s sort of a magic number.
3. Macular Degeneration: The macula of the retina (back of the eyeball) is the area of sharpest focus. In some cases (“wet” macular degeneration) thickening (scar tissue formation?) can result from inflamed blood vessels leaking - usually readily fixed by laser. The other more common “dry” type of degeneration has no direct “fix” in spite of claims made.
Before I get a dozen irate phone calls about “anti-oxidants” let me say that opinions conflict, test populations are small and randomized groupings are rare. If it doesn’t have a bill, webbed feet, quack, and have feathers, I’m not willing as some other guys to call it a duck.
From the Flight Surgeon: Part II
"It Ain’t Necessarily So!!"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
Let’s discuss some medical problems that are “disqualifying”. From a practical point of view this term means that issuance of a medical may or may not be possible depending on mitigating circumstances. Let’s start with a few examples of what I mean.
1. Vertigo - the issue is why (what caused it) and what are the possible consequences. Most of the guys that I see have had vertigo produced by viral or bacterial infections. These problems are usually easily fixed and are isolated occurrences. A simple statement from your treating doc will cover this for you. If, on the other hand, the vertigo is chronic or due to some underlying neurological problem, the F.A.A. won’t issue a medical. It’s easy to understand why, I hope. There are no medicines used to treat vertigo that are OK with the Feds I would add. So you see, a “disqualifying” condition may or may not be ultimately disqualifying.
2. Glaucoma - I discussed this problem briefly with you in the last article. I said that basically there is inadequate drainage of the eyes interior fluid with the result in time that damage to the optic nerve occurs. When diagnosed early enough, most cases can be controlled with eye drops. Rarer cases require surgery. The pilot must, however, provide the F.A.A. with evidence from his treating eye guy that he’s OK. These’s a special form for this issued by the Feds. So there’s another case of a deal that’s “disqualifying” that ultimately becomes OK. The requirement is that the glaucoma form must be filled out every year. You should be checked at least that often anyway so no whining. (Not that anyone ever whines about required supplementary medical data being required of them!)
Now a few general comments from me about these situations. I can’t ever remember a professional pilot beefing to me about having to obtain additional medical data in order to clear a medical. They all seem to understand that there are two kinds of safety - aviation safety and legal safety in terms of the need of the F.A.A. to cover it’s “bleep”. The vast majority of the general pilots I serve understand that also, when I explain to them what “extras” are required of them, say I’ll check their doc’s data for them before sending it in - they appreciate the extra time and trouble Maryjane and I go to for them. After all, that’s part of any AME’s job - to help his pilots. Occasionally, however, we see someone new to us who doesn’t understand that in the 1930's when the first F.A.A. rules were made, I was not yet a teenager, so I wasn’t consulted! (I know that I look old enough, but I wasn’t). I am personally not responsible for the fact that your problems require further medical data. I’m trying to save you time and avoid a cycle of hassles and correspondence with the Feds. Lastly, I do not own a magic doll and stickpins that I used to create your problems. (If I had, there’s one crusty old guy I ran into that I would give hemorrhoids!)
Next issue I plan to continue discussing the so-called “disqualifying conditions”.
Best,
Joe
AEROMEDICAL NEWS
HEALTH NEWS
by Larry Kline
TRY FIBER TO LOSE WEIGHT - new research out of the USDA’s Human Nutrition Research Center shows that if you doubled your daily fiber intake from an average of 18 grams up to 36 grams, you would reduce the absorption of fat and protein from other foods by 130 calories per day. In one year that comes to 13 pounds of weight loss - without eating less or exercising. Also, the increased fiber intake lessens the risk of colon cancer. Men’s Health 1/98.
PMS CURE? - researchers, knowing that some PMS symptoms resemble those of severe calcium deficiency, wondered if calcium could tame the monthly monster. 466 PMS sufferers were recruited, half of them taking four 300-milligram calcium tablets a day (in two doses), and dummy pills to the other half. The women ranged in age from 18 to 45; some had mild symptoms and some severe, but all of them had consistently experienced PMS misery during the preceding year.
For three months the women kept diaries in which they recorded 17 PMS symptoms in four categories: pain, food cravings, mood changes, and water retention. During the first month the two groups differed little, but by the second menstrual cycle the calcium takers reported fewer signs of PMS. During the third cycle their symptoms had diminished overall by a whopping 48 percent. The antidepressant drugs that have been the strongest PMS treatment available reduce symptoms by only 32 to 44 percent.
The 1,200 mg dose used in this study is just a little above the government’s recommendation of 1,000 mg per day for women aged 19 to 50. While the study volunteers got their calcium from Tums, any supplement containing calcium carbonate will do. Researchers don’t know why the mineral works, but suspect low calcium levels cause the body to secrete PMS-causing hormones.
Calcium pills should be taken in several doses during the day - preferably at mealtimes - to ensure optimal absorption. Be sure to drink milk (preferably non-fat), as the vitamin D it contains will help your body hold onto more of the calcium you consume. Health 9/98.
PRESCRIPTION SHORTHAND TRANSLATED - here’s some of the doctor’s shorthand translated so you can understand better what he/she intends:
Rx - take tid - three times a day
ac - before meals qid - four times a day
pc - after meals prn - as needed
qh - every hour hs - at bedtime
bid - twice a day Health 9/98.
THE JOY OF SOY - Soy protein could actually help extend your lifespan. Soy is low in saturated fat and high in fiber, and soybeans contain all eight essential amino acids, significant B vitamins, zinc, calcium, and iron. Additionally, research indicates that soy - via certain phytoestrogens (weak estrogen-like substances made by plants) called isoflavones - lowers cholesterol, helps build bone and muscle, and may reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancers. Recent cancer research indicates that genistein, an isoflavone, is the compound in soy that blocks blood flow to tumors.
Researchers in Australia who fed test subjects a diet high in saturated fat found that those who consumed soy protein had less clogging in their arteries.
Unfortunately, many soy products lose phytoestrogens during processing; some, such as soy cheese, soy sauce and certain brands of soy burgers have no isoflavones at all. Tofu, soy milk, and soy nuts do have these natural chemicals, but amounts vary according to crop sources and recipes. The easiest and most efficient source for soy in your diet is to get soy protein isolate in powder-form (look for “Supro” on the label) at a health food store and add it to your favorite beverage, soup, or sauce. Smoothies are particularly adaptable: start with non-fat yogurt, add fruits of your choice and about two tablespoons (1 ounce) of “GeniSoy”, “Schiff Soy Protein”, or “Take Care”, or similar soy protein powder. Soy milk can be substituted for dairy milk in cereals and smoothies, and comes in orange, mocha, and chocolate flavors. Soybeans can be used in vegetarian burritos, soy flour used in baking goods, and soybean nuts are excellent for snacking.
In summary, roughly 25 grams a day of soy protein (with its naturally occurring isoflavones) is enough to lower LDL cholesterol by about ten percent in people who start out with an LDL above 160. Also, preliminary research indicates that soy or its isoflavones can reduces risk of breast or prostate cancer, osteoporosis, or possibly hot flashes in menopausal women. Lastly, women who have had breast cancer shouldn’t load up on soy protein or take isoflavone pills, as the plant-estrogens may actually increase the risk of further breast cancers. Prime Health & Fitness Fall/1998, Nutrition Action Healthletter 9/98, Men”s Health 6/98.
WEIGHT-LIFTING TURNS ON THE CALORIE “AFTERBURNER” - the calorie-burning potential of weight training is better than anyone suspected. At Appalachian State University physiologists asked 15 people to spend 30 minutes lifting barbells and then a week later, walking at about four miles an hour on a treadmill. During each workout the subjects expended the same amount of energy. But in the half hour after they finished lifting, they burned three times as many calories as they did after just walking without the weight training. Health 9/98.
DO IT IN THE BATHROOM? - “If you want to make a sandwich, I recommend doing it on top of the toilet seat,” says microbiologist Chuck Gerba. “It’s much safer than the kitchen counter top.”
Gerba and his colleagues at the University of Arizona sampled bacteria in 15 homes, taking swabs from 14 sites. The nastiest spots were in the kitchens: sinks, faucets, cutting boards, and refrigerator handles swarmed with bugs that can make people sick. Sponges and dishcloths were the worst, hosting a million times as many bacteria as did toilet seats.
Gerba suspects that most people know to use disinfectants in the bathroom, but rely on mere soap to clean the kitchen. And soap will wipe out neither viruses nor bacteria like salmonella and E. coli.
Happily, a little bleach banishes most bugs - up to 99.99 percent. Gerba advises using a solution of one part bleach to 16 parts water. Anything that has contact with food (like cutting boards, sponges, and dishcloths) should be disinfected daily; fill your sink with water, add bleach, and toss in the items to soak. Wash high-touch zones (like faucets and appliance handles) three times a week. Health 9/98.
USE THE NEGATIVE - those of you spending time in the weight room have undoubtedly been annoyed by the muscle-head who insists on dropping his weights at the end of his reps. Now, a report from Syracuse University shows that by letting gravity lower your weight plates for you, you’ll not only lose out on serious strength gains, but also plant the seed for future weakness.
Whether on a machine or using free weights, paying close attention to the negative (the lowering motion of the exercise) can increase strength gains by moving the weight slowly and under control in both directions. Prime Health & Fitness Fall/98.
BEATING GENETICS - genetics isn’t necessarily fate. Your longevity may depend more on your workout schedule than your grandparents’ life span. Scientists in Finland tracked the health and physical activity of 16,000 twins for 19 years. By the end of the study a twin who’d exercised for at least 30 minutes six times a month was 56 percent more likely to have outlived his or her sedentary twin. Even sporadic exercisers tend to outlast their idle twins. Health 9/98.
“Age is mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it don’t matter.” Satchel Paige
ASK MOM - if your mother took the antimiscarriage drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy - between 1938 and 1971 about 4.8 million women did - be sure to perform a monthly testicle self-test. A study found that men whose mothers took DES while pregnant developed testicular cysts three times more often than other men. The cysts, though benign, must be checked to rule out cancer. More info...call DES Action at 800-337-9288. Men’s Health 6/98.
BACTERIA MAY CAUSE KIDNEY STONES - some scientists suspect that newly discovered microbes called nanobacteria may be the cause of most kidney stones.
These slow-growing bacteria are far smaller than most. They seem to grow a hard, grayish-brown shell composed of a calcium-rich compound. Since most kidney stones are also made of calcium, the scientists theorize the painful pebbles might result from calcium crystals building up layer by layer atop the bacteria’s shell. To support their hypothesis, the researchers dissected 30 stones from patients. They found these microbes in every one.
These findings are very preliminary. However, if further research confirms that the bacteria are responsible for kidney stones, a course of antibiotics might prevent kidney stones from recurring. Health 10/98.
GRAPE JUICE MAY LOWER RISK OF HEART DISEASE - purple grape juice seems to have the same effect as red wine in reducing the risk of heart disease, according to a study presented at the America Heart Association’s 71st Scientific Sessions.
Intrigued by research showing lower rates of heart disease in people who drink one to two glasses of red wine per day, researchers studied purple grape juice to determine if it has similar effects.
“Alcohol is a potent inhibitor of the platelet aggregation, or blood clotting, that can lead to heart attack and stroke. But alcohol inhibits blood clots only at high levels in the blood - high enough to cause intoxication...we were interested in finding out how to get the benefits of clot inhibition seen with red wine, but without the intoxication effects of alcohol,” says Dr. Jane E. Freedman, M.D., assistant professor of medicine and pharmacology at Georgetown University Medical Center. Dr. Freedman studied blood platelets - cells in the blood that clump to form blood clots - in a solution containing purple grape juice and in “control” solutions that did not. Platelets in purple grape juice clotted about 30 percent less than did the controls and released three times more nitric oxide, a chemical that dilates, or widens, blood vessels and also serves as a powerful inhibitor of clotting because it keeps platelets from sticking together. Both effects of nitric oxide help reduce the likelihood that blood clots will block the arteries and cause a heart attack.
In addition, platelets in purple grape juice released 55 percent less super-oxide - one of the reactive oxygen molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals react with cholesterol, possibly making it more dangerous to blood vessels. Freedman says she decided to look for superoxide because it quickly inactivates the beneficial effects of nitric oxide. Researchers also tested the effects of a substance in grape juice called quercetin. Quercetin is one of a group of compounds called flavonoids, which are thought to have antioxidant properties. Significant amounts of flavonoids are found in onions, apples, tea, broccoli, berries, and red wine, with each of those items containing its own unique combination of flavonoids.
Freedman says the grapes used to make red wine and purple grape juice are often different from the red and white grapes at the grocery store. “Eating pitted purple grapes may not have the same effect as drinking purple grape juice because of the variety of grapes available and the concentration of flavonoids that results from juice processing.”
SMOKER’S AID - a Finnish study of thousands of male smokers revealed that daily 50 mg. doses of vitamin E reduced their risk of prostate cancer by one-third. Vitamin E was also found to reduce risk of colon-rectal and lung cancers. Men’s Fitness 8/98.
HIDDEN HEALTH HAZARD IN SNACKS - many cookies and crackers contain trans-fats, which may be as bad for you as the saturated variety. However, manufacturers aren’t required to give a figure for trans-fats in the nutritional information on the label. That’s why the saturated and unsaturated fat grams don’t always add up to the number for total fat. To see if a product has trans-fats, check the ingredients list, where they’ll appear as vegetable shortening or partially hydrogenated oil. Health 9/98.
EAT TO FIGHT FATIGUE - Alan M. Spira, M.D., medical director of the Travel Medicine Center, advises eating protein early in the day to increase the body’s production of catecholamines, organic compounds that keep you alert. Evening meals should be rich in carbohydrates, which enhance sleep by promoting serotonin synthesis. Of course, eating heavy-carb meals late in the evening may slow down your weight-loss efforts. Men’s Fitness 11/98.
IS THAT TAP WATER IN YOUR PERRIER? - according to the International Bottled Water Association, 25 percent of bottled waters for sale are from municipal sources...tap water. If you want to avoid paying for bottled tap water, look for labels that say spring, mineral, well, or artesian water. The Food and Drug Administration requires testing of all bottled water; bottlers that belongs to IBWA must meet higher purity standards than those set by the FDA - call 800-928-3711 for a list of brands. Health 9/98.
STRONG ABS = LESS BACK PROBLEMS - a recent U.S. Army study indicates that powerful abdominal muscles may greatly aid in reducing lower-back injuries. After giving 120 artillery soldiers the standard army fitness test of situps, push-ups, and a 2-mile run, researchers tracked their lower-body injuries during a year of field training. The 29 men who were able to do the most situps (73 or more in 2 minutes) were five times less likely to suffer lower-body injuries than the 31 guys who barely notched 50 situps. Surprisingly, the men who did the best in the pushup test and 2-mile run enjoyed no such protection.
“This study showed that weak abdominal or hip flexor muscles make you more prone to lower-body injuries,” states the study leader. Men’s Health 10/98.
From the Flight Surgeon: Part I
"Aye, Eye, Sir!"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
Let’s talk about some eye problems I don’t think we’ve discussed before.
1. Cataracts: This problem is described as a “clouding” of the lens due to the effects of excessive sunlight, disease, aging, or smoking. It seems that these factors cause the formation of clumps of proteins that independently reflect light giving rise to blurry vision, decreased color clarity and more sensitivity to glare. The problem is readily fixed by surgery, but I suggest a word of caution. According to my favorite eye guy, Dr. Robert Pinkert, the best indicator objectively is inability to get better than 20/50 with lenses. My guy says if the pressure of a cataract hampers your work, it doesn’t matter what the objective findings are. He also notes that if you are not hampered you don’t need the surgery. Not oddly enough, when you think it through, he points out the “cataract clinics” do more surgery than other eye specialists. You are to draw your own conclusions. That’s another reason “Pinky” is my favorite eye guy.
2. Glaucoma: What happens here is that because of inadequate “drainage”, there is increased pressure fluid within the eye that exerts pressure on and damages the optic nerve. By the time this is noted by the airman, the damage maybe irreversible. Testing with finger pressure, “air puffs”, or tonometry with a Shiotz device are definitely old-time stuff. Newer and abetter ways of measuring pressure within the eyeball are available and should be used. A direct “peek” at the optic nerve is of course, most important. Detected early enough, glaucoma can usually be adequately controlled, The idea is to have pressure check - maybe every three years after age 45, but that’s sort of a magic number.
3. Macular Degeneration: The macula of the retina (back of the eyeball) is the area of sharpest focus. In some cases (“wet” macular degeneration) thickening (scar tissue formation?) can result from inflamed blood vessels leaking - usually readily fixed by laser. The other more common “dry” type of degeneration has no direct “fix” in spite of claims made.
Before I get a dozen irate phone calls about “anti-oxidants” let me say that opinions conflict, test populations are small and randomized groupings are rare. If it doesn’t have a bill, webbed feet, quack, and have feathers, I’m not willing as some other guys to call it a duck.
From the Flight Surgeon: Part II
"It Ain’t Necessarily So!!"
by Joe Battersby, D.O.
FAA Medical Examiner
(edited for this publication-LK)
Let’s discuss some medical problems that are “disqualifying”. From a practical point of view this term means that issuance of a medical may or may not be possible depending on mitigating circumstances. Let’s start with a few examples of what I mean.
1. Vertigo - the issue is why (what caused it) and what are the possible consequences. Most of the guys that I see have had vertigo produced by viral or bacterial infections. These problems are usually easily fixed and are isolated occurrences. A simple statement from your treating doc will cover this for you. If, on the other hand, the vertigo is chronic or due to some underlying neurological problem, the F.A.A. won’t issue a medical. It’s easy to understand why, I hope. There are no medicines used to treat vertigo that are OK with the Feds I would add. So you see, a “disqualifying” condition may or may not be ultimately disqualifying.
2. Glaucoma - I discussed this problem briefly with you in the last article. I said that basically there is inadequate drainage of the eyes interior fluid with the result in time that damage to the optic nerve occurs. When diagnosed early enough, most cases can be controlled with eye drops. Rarer cases require surgery. The pilot must, however, provide the F.A.A. with evidence from his treating eye guy that he’s OK. These’s a special form for this issued by the Feds. So there’s another case of a deal that’s “disqualifying” that ultimately becomes OK. The requirement is that the glaucoma form must be filled out every year. You should be checked at least that often anyway so no whining. (Not that anyone ever whines about required supplementary medical data being required of them!)
Now a few general comments from me about these situations. I can’t ever remember a professional pilot beefing to me about having to obtain additional medical data in order to clear a medical. They all seem to understand that there are two kinds of safety - aviation safety and legal safety in terms of the need of the F.A.A. to cover it’s “bleep”. The vast majority of the general pilots I serve understand that also, when I explain to them what “extras” are required of them, say I’ll check their doc’s data for them before sending it in - they appreciate the extra time and trouble Maryjane and I go to for them. After all, that’s part of any AME’s job - to help his pilots. Occasionally, however, we see someone new to us who doesn’t understand that in the 1930's when the first F.A.A. rules were made, I was not yet a teenager, so I wasn’t consulted! (I know that I look old enough, but I wasn’t). I am personally not responsible for the fact that your problems require further medical data. I’m trying to save you time and avoid a cycle of hassles and correspondence with the Feds. Lastly, I do not own a magic doll and stickpins that I used to create your problems. (If I had, there’s one crusty old guy I ran into that I would give hemorrhoids!)
Next issue I plan to continue discussing the so-called “disqualifying conditions”.
Best,
Joe
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