#Risk factors for kidney disease

[mukathospital]

What leads to KIDNEY DISEASE? 🚨 Uncover the causes.

➡️ Swipe to learn about key causes

✅ High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) ✅ High Blood Sugar (Diabetes) ✅ High Protein & Processed Food Diet ✅ Smoking & Alcohol

[health-and-fitness-care]

High blood pressure system and causes information

Increased blood pressure in the arteries is a medical disease known as hypertension, or high blood pressure. It’s a vital component of cardiovascular health that has broad effects on general wellbeing. This illness usually takes time to manifest, and until problems happen, it frequently remains asymptomatic.High blood pressure is caused by a number of variables, such as underlying medical…

[healthcare-gomedii]

Kidney Treatment in India

Kidney disease means that your kidneys have been damaged; that’s why they are not working properly. Many kidney conditions are "chronic" because kidney function deteriorates over time. At this point, you will need dialysis (artificial filtering) or a kidney transplant and the success rate of kidney treatment in India is cover 90% to 95%.

[letters-to-lgbt-kids]

My dear lgbt+ kids, 

When it comes to healthcare, you’ll occasionally encounter things presented as an opinion or as something up for debate - when there’s actually clear scientific facts on those topics. 

You can probably think of some general examples off the top of your head, like: 

Vaccines (They save lives. In fact, they are one of the most effective tools for reducing mortality rates worldwide) 

Pasteurized milk (Raw milk is not healthier than pasteurized milk, it’s actually unsafe. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria which can cause severe illness) 

Fluoride (Water fluoridation is a safe and effective public health measure) 

Climate change (It exists and directly impacts respiratory and cardiovascular health)

“Detox” (The liver and kidneys detox your body naturally; detox teas, juice cleanses etc. are unnecessary) 

Cancer (Cancer isn’t just one disease, it’s an umbrella term for many different diseases and that’s why it’s very, very difficult, if not impossible, to just find the one simple fix to end cancer forever) 

Sugar substitutes (They have been extensively studied and are safe for consumption within recommended limits) 

There’s a lot of misinformation out there and it often thrives because it plays on fears (such as the natural fear of illness, dangerous substances and life-threatening side effects). Nobody wants to willingly put themselves or their loved ones into danger - but this absolutely natural desire for protection can be exploited. 

Some common tactics for that are: 

relying on personal anecdotes (emotional stories often feel more reliable or trustworthy than cold, hard data, even though they aren’t) 

appealing to those who distrust authority (the suggestion that governments/scientists/corporations/“they” are conspiring against you feels trustworthy if it seemingly “confirms” fears you already had) 

misusing scientific terminology (Complex-sounding terms can make something appear credible and well-researched, even if these terms are used completely incorrectly) 

giving quick, easy answers or fixes to complex problems (health is a complicated, multifaceted topic and there’s oftentimes no easy-cut answer to why a certain person gets sick or if a now-healthy person will still be as healthy in 10 years. This unpredictability can feel scary, and oversimplified answers can offer comfort) 

While health myths impact anyone, they disproportionately affect marginalized groups - for example chronically ill or disabled people but also our community.  

That’s because health myths (or outright health lies) can perpetuate stigma and create barriers to accessing evidence-based care. 

Myths specifically targeting queer health often follow the same patterns we talked about above. Let's take a closer look at some common topics and break down the facts behind them: 

Pedophilia (There is no evidence linking sexual orientation or gender identity to pedophilia or predatory behavior. This myth is rooted in bigotry and perpetuates harmful stereotypes) 

HIV/AIDS (it’s not “the gay disease” or even a “punishment for being gay”. It’s a virus that can affect people of all genders and sexual orientations) 

Regret rates (Regret rates for gender-affirming care are very low, even lower than for getting a new hip or a tattoo.) 

Regret rates, 2.0 (“Regret” does not automatically translate to “they were wrong about being trans”. A trans person could regret medical decisions for a multitude of reasons (even external factors like a lack of social support or experience of harassment) and still continue to identify as trans) 

Mental illness (The higher rate of mental health issues in queer people is caused by external factors like discrimination and social exclusion, not by the identity itself. Being queer is not a mental illness.) 

Conversion therapy (It doesn’t work. It also causes severe psychological harm including an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide) 

Treating these myths as not “only” homophobia and transphobia but also as health misinformation may feel nitpicky, but I think it’s important. If we don’t, it’s easy to dismiss them as merely a matter of “not accidentally saying something offensive” - but there’s more at stake than hurt feelings. Health misinformation can prevent people from getting the medical care they need and put their lives at risk. And that applies to “Trans people often regret their surgeries” as much as it does to “Covid vaccines are dangerous”. 

So, look out for those typical patterns and warning signs - not only in the general “health and wellness” area but also in discussions about queer issues. 

With all my love, 

Your Tumblr Dad 

[reality-detective]

MORE ABOUT THIS↙️

Do you Love making natural remedies?

Did you know that you can easily make this powerful remedy at home?

you will only need :

• 1 orange 🍊

• 1 Lime 💚

• 1 Lemon 🍋

• Onion skin (From 1 🧅)

• Big chunk of ginger 💛

• 5 willow leaves 🍃

• 1/2 tsp Turmeric 🧡

• Pinch of black pepper 🖤 (to activate Turmeric)

• More than pinch of Chilli pepper 🌶

1. Drop them all into a pot

2. Pour in water so all ingredients are under water

3. Steep for 15-20 mins

And you done ✅

Drink 1-2 cups daily

Good in fridge for up to a week+

Benefits of :

Orange 🍊 :

The vitamin C in it can help :

• Protect your cells from damage

• Helps your body make collagen.

Lime 💚 & Lemon 🍋:

• Consuming limes or drinking the juice may improve immunity

• Reduce heart disease risk factors

• Prevent kidney stones

Onion skin 🧅 :

• The skins of onion provides an excellent source of vitamins A, C, E, and numerous antioxidants.

• They're also a rich source of flavonoids, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginger 💛 :

• Has powerful components that lower blood sugar levels and prevent heart disease

• Eating ginger every day can regulate the production of insulin in patients with diabetes.

Willow bark 🍃 :

• Has been used throughout the centuries in China and Europe, and continues to be used today for the treatment of pain (particularly low back pain and osteoarthritis), headache, and inflammatory conditions, such as bursitis and tendinitis.

Turmeric 🧡 :

• Its most active compound, curcumin, has many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health

• Prevent against Alzheimer's and cancer.

Chilli pepper 🌶 :

• Helps Protect Your Heart.

• Can Help You Burn Fat and Lose Weight.

• Help Soothe Intestinal Diseases.

U can sure use fewer ingredients then shown, if u are sick just use those witch are needed at that time. 🤔

[megpricephotography]

It's so tough watching dogs get older... Flynn's had to start a new medication today & oh boy, I'm stressing out about it - hopefully unnecessarily! More under the cut - discussions of blood tests, urine samples, kidney issues, medication...

*UPDATE* 20th Dec also under the cut!!

Longtime followers may remember Flynnie only has 1 kidney. The other one was removed when he was 2.5 yrs old but it'd been effectively non-functional from when he was around 5 months old (due to an abscess forming in it). So for the vast majority of his life, Flynn's had 1 functioning kidney & it's worked like a champ! But. At 11.5 years old, age is perhaps catching up with him. Flynn's last blood test was done a couple of weeks ago & overall, his kidney function is, to use the vet's description: "great". However... for over a year now, we've been monitoring an issue with Flynn's urine. He has protein in his pee & that's not great - it means the fine structures in his kidney aren't filtering properly & as this issue continues, it will inevitably cause kidney damage. So, while Flynn does not currently have "chronic kidney disease"... it's a concern, particularly given at best his kidney function is 50% of a normal dog.

Unfortunately, Flynn's UPC level (the measurement of protein in urine) has risen recently. Not scarily high but vets feel drugs are now needed - especially as, although bloods were generally good, Flynn's blood albumin level (protein in the blood) was really quite low - indicating the loss in his urine is having an impact. He's already on a renal diet, so trying meds is the next step.

Anyway, the drugs are ACE-inhibitors - same stuff as humans take for high BP. The hope is they'll lower blood pressure in the kidney & that will help reduce protein loss. Sadly, meds won't fix the problem 100%, the aim is just to slow things down. I do think starting Flynn on the meds is for the best but I'm stressed because there's a small chance it could actually make things worse. Very occasionally dogs don't react well to ACE-inhibitors & the meds actually cause kidney damage. I'm going to monitor him closely & he'll be having bloods/urine rechecked in a couple of weeks but it's scary! Also... we've had to stop giving Flynn regular NSAIDs for his arthritis pain. He can take paracetamol (tylenol) but regularly combining ACE-inhibitors with NSAIDs increases risk of kidney damage. Once he's hopefully stable on the ACE-inhibitors, I'll ask about trying alternative painkillers - but I don't want to start him on multiple drugs at once. It's tough trying to juggle multiple different factors! I'm aware I'm more twitchy than I used to be about all this because in May 2023, Flynn had an appalling reaction to Librela (actually, that was when we picked up on the issue with his pee). Librela is a new-ish medication & usually a safe way to treat arthritic pain in dogs. It's given as a monthly injection. Flynn had 1 dose & unfortunately, it made him very sick. His bloods were checked a week prior & everything looked good - but within days of the injection, his kidney, liver & pancreas were struggling & he suffered kidney disease type symptoms. Luckily, everything - except the high protein in his urine - fully resolved within 2-3 months but the entire ordeal was awful & logical or not, I felt so guilty about it. I do not want to go through that again!

Anyway, if you've made it this far - thank you! I just needed to write my thoughts down really! For now all I can do is monitor Flynn until he has his next blood test, hope the ACE-inhibitors work well & help his kidney stay relatively healthy & that we can then also find a safe, effective way to keep him physically comfortable for a long time to come. It's just hard because there are no perfect solutions...

*THE UPDATE* Soo… Flynn's been on the new ACE-inhibitor for about 2.5 weeks now. He went in for a blood test on Tuesday & we also checked his urine this week. I got the results today (Dec 20th)… Good news is that his blood work is OK & his worryingly low blood protein level has risen. However… we started him on the new meds specifically to LOWER the amount of protein in his urine & unfortunately, his UPC level has actually gone UP!!! It's higher than ever… It's possible this is a blip, or the meds haven't had time to improve this issue but very occasionally, dogs react badly to it & it can actually reduce kidney function (& increase protein in urine) instead of helping. Anyway, physically, Flynn seems to feeling alright in himself, so that's something. He's actually coping very well off the NSAIDs - paracetamol/tylenol is keeping him comfortable enough. We've been told to carry on with the ACE-inhibitors for now & Flynn's got to go have his blood pressure checked on Dec 30th & I will request they check his pee again then. Guess if he's got worse, we may need to change the type of meds he takes at that point. I am just so stressed - really hoping things have improved by the time we go back to the vets!Gah!!! Pets… why do they get problems over the holidays?!! Think good thoughts for Flynnie!

[gallifreyinstituteforlearning]

⚕️Interpreting Gallifreyan Bloodwork

This guide is for use on Gallifreyans and Time Lords only. Always seek your human advice from human health providers.

🩸 How Gallifreyan Bloodwork Differs from Humans

Gallifreyan blood is vastly different from human blood due to triple-helix DNA, dual-heart circulation, and the presence of artron and lindos compounds. While some human blood tests can provide limited insights, many are ineffective, requiring Gallifreyan-specific diagnostics for accurate interpretation.

🧪 Blood Tests & Their Efficacy

Human Tests:

Venous Blood Gas (VBG) (Acid-base balance, oxygenation) ✅ Useful for pH, glucose, electrolytes, lactate.

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) (Oxygenation accuracy) ❌ No advantage over VBG in Gallifreyan physiology.

Full Blood Count (FBC) (RBCs, WBCs, platelets) ❌ Useless—Gallifreyan cells do not match human equivalents.

Urea & Electrolytes (U&E) (Kidney function) ✅ Detects chloride (Cl⁻), creatinine, magnesium (Mg²⁺), potassium (K⁺), sodium (Na⁺).

Troponin (Heart damage/disease detection) ✅ Detects Gallifreyan troponin levels to assess myocardial strain.

Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) (Heart failure monitoring) ✅ Detects NT-proBNP, useful for evaluating dual-heart strain.

Group & Save (G&S) (Blood typing for transfusions) ❌ Useless—Gallifreyan blood groups are House-specific and not compatible across Houses.

Liver Function Test (LFT) (Liver enzyme assessment) ✅ Detects ALP, GGT, ALT, AST to monitor liver health, particularly in relation to lindos metabolism and toxin exposure.

International Normalised Ratio (INR) (Clotting rate) ❌ Useless—Gallifreyan clotting mechanisms differ from human systems.

Specialised Gallifreyan Tests:

Z-Cell Count (Immune response monitoring) ✅ Essential for assessing general and specific immune function.

Artron Levels (Time-energy exposure, immune activation, healing response) ✅ Essential for assessing infection, injury healing, psionic function, and Time Vortex exposure.

Lindos Levels (Regenerative activity indicator) ✅ Detectable only before, during, or after regeneration. Presence at other times is abnormal and suggests systemic failure or forced regeneration attempts.

House Blood Testing (Genetic matching, transfusion compatibility) ✅ Detects House-specific protein markers, ensuring safe transfusions.

Platelet & Clotting Factors (Coagulation health, haemodynamic stability) ✅ Excess platelets indicate haemoinstability, increasing the risk of multiple embolisms and stroke, particularly in cases of aspirin poisoning or anticoagulant dysfunction.

🔬 Gallifreyan Blood Reference Ranges & Abnormalities

pH (VBG/ABG) (Acid-base balance, metabolic function)

🟢 Normal: 7.1 – 7.4 🛑⬆️ Higher pH suggests metabolic alkalosis, respiratory bypass activation, or regenerative instability. 🛑⬇️ Lower pH may indicate acidosis, systemic infection, or artron overload.

Glucose (Energy metabolism, regeneration status)

🟢 Normal: 3.0 – 6.5 mmol/L 🛑⬆️ High glucose suggests lindos activation, metabolic shifts from regeneration, or time-energy instability. 🛑⬇️ Low glucose suggests systemic metabolic failure, starvation, or hypoartronosis.

Lactate (Metabolic function, regeneration status)

🟢 Normal: 0.5 – 2.0 mmol/L 🛑⬆️ High lactate suggests metabolic distress, post-regeneration recovery, or artron dysregulation. 🛑⬇️ Low lactate suggests poor energy reserves or extreme starvation.

Troponin (Heart damage monitoring, dual-heart strain)

🟢 Normal: 0.01 – 0.15 ng/mL 🛑⬆️ High troponin suggests dual-heart strain, pre-regenerative cardiac failure, or bypass overuse.

NT-proBNP (Heart failure marker, circulation monitoring)

🟢 Normal: 0 – 500 pg/mL 🛑⬆️ Elevated levels indicate early-stage heart failure, one heart compensating for another, or cardiac stress.

Z-Cell Count (Immune response, infection monitoring)

🟢 Normal: 5,000 – 15,000 mcL 🛑⬆️ High Z-cell counts suggest active infection, systemic inflammation, or immune hyperactivation. 🛑⬇️ Low Z-cell counts indicate immunosuppression, chronic illness, or psionic burnout.

Artron Levels (Infection, healing, time-radiation exposure)

🟢 Normal: 500 – 4000 mcL (higher baseline in Time Lords) 🛑⬆️ 4000+ mcL suggests hyperartronosis (psionic overactivity, radiation exposure, tissue repair). 🛑⬇️ Below 500 mcL suggests hypoartronosis (immune suppression, tissue degeneration, metabolic failure).

Lindos Levels (Regeneration marker, biological restructuring)

🟢 Undetectable unless regenerating 🛑⬆️ Presence outside of regeneration suggests forced regeneration, internal instability, or pre-regenerative stress response.

Platelet & Clotting Factors (Haemostasis, stroke risk)

🟢 Normal: Variable based on individual regenerative state 🛑⬆️ Excess platelets suggest haemoinstability, aspirin poisoning, or embolism risk. 🛑⬇️ Low platelets indicate clotting failure, possible regenerative exhaustion, or internal bleeding risk.

📌 Key Takeaways for Bloodwork Interpretation

✔️ Z-Cells are elevated in Gallifreyan immune response.

✔️ Artron levels increase in infection, injury healing, and radiation exposure. Time Lords naturally have higher baseline artron levels than other Gallifreyans.

✔️ Lindos should only be present before, during, or after regeneration. Presence at other times is a major red flag.

✔️ Hyperartronosis and Hypoartronosis can cause severe neurological, metabolic, and cardiovascular consequences.

✔️ House-matching is essential for blood transfusions. Mismatched blood leads to systemic failure.

✔️ Clotting instability can cause multiple embolisms or stroke, requiring monitoring in cases of anticoagulant use or regenerative dysfunction.

---

📚 Clinical Case Studies

Now you know absolutely everything about Gallifreyan bloodwork, you can apply them to some simple clinical scenarios. There are three fully explained case studies, followed by two additional scenarios for you to think about.

🩺 Case 1: Post-Regenerative Complications

📝 Patient Background & Presentation: Patient is a Time Lord, 918/3rd generation, Newblood. They present 10 hours post-regeneration with severe fatigue, dizziness, difficulty walking, and pallor. They complain of "feeling wrong in my own body."

🧪 Tests Ordered: Venous Blood Gas (VBG), Lactate levels, U&E (Electrolytes & Kidney Function), Liver Function Test (LFT), Artron & Lindos Levels

📊 Lab Results: - pH: 7.08 (⬇️Acidosis) - Lactate: 5.6 mmol/L (⬆️Elevated) - Sodium (Na⁺): 128 mmol/L (⬇️Low) - Potassium (K⁺): 3.1 mmol/L (⬇️Low) - Magnesium (Mg²⁺): 0.9 mmol/L (⬇️Low) - Lindos: 14,500 mcL (⬆️Very High) - Artron: 650 mcL (⬇️Low)

🩸 Interpretation: - The low artron levels and high lindos levels indicate post-regenerative instability, where metabolic processes have not fully stabilised following regeneration. - The elevated lactate and acidosis suggest impaired metabolic clearance, possibly due to lingering regenerative strain. - The electrolyte imbalances (low sodium, potassium, and magnesium) are contributing to the patient's dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.

💡 Diagnosis: Post-Regenerative Metabolic Instability with Hypoartronosis

🩺 Case 2: Time Travel Incident

📝 Patient Background & Presentation: Patient is a Time Lord scientist, 402/1st generation, Oldblood. They were admitted following a collapse mid-experiment after direct exposure to a raw time vortex rift. Unconscious upon arrival, GASS score rapidly deteriorating.

🧪 Tests Ordered: Venous Blood Gas (VBG), Lactate levels, Z-Cell Count, Artron & Lindos Levels, Liver Function Test (LFT)

📊 Lab Results - pH: 7.25 (⚖️Normal, slightly acidic) - Lactate: 4.3 mmol/L (⬆️Elevated) - Z-Cell Count: 13,800 mcL (⚖️Normal) - Artron: 8,900 mcL (⬆️Very High) - Lindos: <50 mcL (⚖️Normal) - ALT/AST: Slightly elevated (⬆️)

🩸 Interpretation: - Critically elevated artron levels suggest hyperartronosis due to raw time-energy exposure. This has led to neurological overload, explaining the collapse and psionic disturbances. - Elevated lactate suggests tissue stress and impaired metabolic clearance, likely due to the overload of artron. - Liver enzyme elevation indicates mild systemic strain but not full organ failure.

💡 Diagnosis: Acute Hyperartronosis Due to Uncontrolled Time-Energy Exposure

🩺 Case 3: Severe Cardiac Distress

📝 Patient Background & Presentation: Time Lord ambassador, 2752/7th generation, Oldblood. The patient was admitted with chest pain, dizziness, palpitations, and difficulty maintaining balance. Heart rhythms are synchronous.

🧪 Tests Ordered: Troponin, NT-proBNP (Heart failure marker), Venous Blood Gas (VBG), Z-Cell Count, Electrolytes (U&E)

📊 Lab Results - pH: 7.38 (⚖️Normal) - Troponin: 0.22 ng/mL (⬆️Elevated) - NT-proBNP: 710 pg/mL (⬆️High) - Z-Cell Count: 6,900 mcL (⚖️Normal) - Potassium (K⁺): 5.8 mmol/L (⬆️Elevated)

🩸 Interpretation & Diagnosis: - Elevated troponin and NT-proBNP levels confirm cardiac distress, likely due to strain on both hearts attempting to compensate for each other. - Elevated potassium suggests possible metabolic involvement contributing to electrical disturbances in heart function. - Synchronous heart rhythm and symptoms indicate a high risk of impending heart/s failure.

💡 Diagnosis: Severe Dual-Heart Strain with Electrical Instability

🤔 Self-Interpretation Cases

🩺 Case 4: Post-Surgery Issues

📝Patient Background & Presentation: Patient is a Time Lord, 1890/5th generation, Oldblood. An hour ago, they underwent surgery to correct a post-regenerative issue in limb attachment, which required anaesthesia and a blood transfusion. Since surgery, they have had a rapid deterioration, with confusion, severe fever, and difficulty breathing.

🧪 Tests Ordered: Venous Blood Gas, Z-Cell Count, Liver Function Test, Electrolytes (U&E), Artron Levels

📊 Lab Results: - pH: 7.02 (⬇️Severe Acidosis) - Lactate: 6.1 mmol/L (⬆️ Critically Elevated) - Z-Cell Count: 18,200 mcL (⬆️Hyperactivation) - Liver Enzymes: Critically elevated (⬆️) - Sodium (Na⁺): 121 mmol/L (⬇️Dangerously low) - Artron: 9,200 mcL (⬆️ Very high)

💡 Questions to Consider

What could be a potential cause/diagnosis?

What does the elevated Z-cell count indicate about the immune response?

How does House-specific transfusion compatibility play a role in this case?

Why are sodium levels dangerously low?

What does the combination of high artron and high lactate suggest about metabolic function?

🩺 Case 5: Accidental Aspirin Ingestion in a Gallifreyan

📝Patient Background & Presentation: Patient is a Gallifreyan, 612/2nd generation. They were found unresponsive after a trip to an Earth hospital to see a friend. They present with swollen extremities and face, severe nosebleeds, petechiae (tiny bruises), slurred speech, and tachycardia.

🧪 Tests Ordered: Venous Blood Gas, Platelet & Clotting Factors, Liver Function Test, Electrolytes, Z-Cell Count, Artron Levels

📊 Lab Results: - pH: 7.45 (⚖️Normal, slightly alkaline) - Platelet Count: 350% above baseline (⬆️Dangerously high) - Liver Enzymes: Moderately elevated (⬆️) - Potassium (K⁺): 3.0 mmol/L (⬇️Low) - Z-Cell Count: 22,400 mcL (⬆️ Severe immune response) - Artron: 5,700 mcL (⬆️ Elevated, systemic activation detected)

💡 Questions to Consider:

What could be a potential cause/diagnosis?

Why is platelet count dangerously high?

How does aspirin toxicity affect Gallifreyan haemostasis differently from humans?

Why are Z-cell and artron levels elevated at the same time?

How does the presence of left-side weakness and slurred speech relate to this case?

Medical Guides These are all practical guides to assessing and treating a Gallifreyan in an emergency or medical setting.

⚕️💕Gallifreyan CPR

⚕️👽Gallifreyan Assessment Scoring System (GASS)

⚕️👽ABCDE Assessment

⚕️⚠️Sepsis Emergency Response (SER)

⚕️⚠️Severe Trauma Protocol

⚕️🌡️Gallifreyan Thermoregulation and Emergency Response

⚕️🔮Psionic Emergency Pathways

⚕️✨Post-Regeneration Management

⚕️🩸Interpreting Gallifreyan Bloodwork

⚕️👶Gallifreyan Paediatric Emergencies

Any orange text is educated guesswork or theoretical. More content ... →📫Got a question? | 📚Complete list of Q+A and factoids →📢Announcements |🩻Biology |🗨️Language |🕰️Throwbacks |🤓Facts → Features:⭐Guest Posts | 🍜Chomp Chomp with Myishu →🫀Gallifreyan Anatomy and Physiology Guide (pending) →⚕️Gallifreyan Emergency Medicine Guides →📝Source list (WIP) →📜Masterpost If you're finding your happy place in this part of the internet, feel free to buy a coffee to help keep our exhausted human conscious. She works full-time in medicine and is so very tired 😴

[catloversden]

The Benefits of a Cat Water Fountain: Keeping Your Feline Hydrated and Healthy

Cats are known for their independent nature, but when it comes to their hydration, they often need a little extra encouragement. Many cat owners struggle to get their pets to drink enough water, which is essential for their overall health. One of the best solutions to this issue is investing in a cat water fountain. This simple yet effective device can significantly improve your cat’s hydration habits.

Why Hydration is Important for Cats

Unlike dogs, cats have a lower natural thirst drive due to their evolutionary history as desert animals. This means they might not drink enough water from a standard bowl, leading to dehydration. Chronic dehydration can contribute to urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and other serious health problems. A cat water fountain provides a fresh, continuously flowing water source that encourages more frequent drinking.

Key Benefits of a Cat Water Fountain

1. Encourages Drinking

Cats are instinctively drawn to running water. In the wild, flowing water is usually cleaner and safer to drink than stagnant water. A water fountain mimics this natural preference, enticing cats to drink more often.

2. Filters and Purifies Water

Most cat water fountains come with built-in filtration systems that remove impurities, such as hair, dust, and bacteria. This ensures that your cat always has access to fresh and clean water, reducing the risk of illness.

3. Reduces the Risk of Urinary and Kidney Issues

Since many cats don’t drink enough water, they are at risk of developing urinary tract infections and kidney disease. By providing a continuous flow of clean water, a cat fountain encourages increased water consumption, supporting better kidney function and overall health.

4. Keeps Water Fresh and Oxygenated

Standing water in bowls can become stale and unappealing to cats. A fountain keeps water circulating, preventing stagnation and improving oxygenation, making it more enticing for your feline friend.

5. Lowers Maintenance for Owners

With a traditional water bowl, pet owners need to change and clean the water multiple times a day to keep it fresh. A cat water fountain, equipped with a filter, requires less frequent refilling and cleaning, making it a convenient option for busy pet owners.

Choosing the Right Cat Water Fountain

When selecting a water fountain for your cat, consider the following factors:

Material: Stainless steel, ceramic, or BPA-free plastic options are available. Stainless steel and ceramic are generally more hygienic and durable.

Filtration System: Look for models with replaceable carbon or charcoal filters to ensure optimal water purity.

Size and Capacity: Choose a fountain that suits your cat’s needs, especially if you have multiple pets.

Noise Level: Some fountains can be noisy, so opt for a quieter model if your cat is sensitive to sound.

Ease of Cleaning: A fountain with removable, dishwasher-safe parts makes cleaning hassle-free.

Conclusion

A cat water fountain is a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve your cat’s hydration and overall well-being. By providing fresh, clean, and appealing water, you can ensure that your feline friend stays healthy and happy. Whether you have a finicky drinker or just want to offer the best hydration solution, a cat water fountain is an excellent choice for any cat owner.

[covid-safer-hotties]

preserved in our archive

By Jason Gale

Hi, it’s Jason in Melbourne. Almost five years after Covid‑19 broke out, scientists are still unraveling its pathological modus operandi. Before I get into that...

Toxic blood effects Clotting disorders in Covid patients were spotted by researchers in China in early 2020, but the true extent of the risk only became clear when even patients with mild respiratory symptoms began experiencing strokes.

At first, doctors suspected these clots might result from a “cytokine storm” — an intense immune response releasing a surge of inflammation-signaling proteins. Others noted that the virus could directly damage blood vessel linings.

But Katerina Akassoglou, a neurovascular brain immunologist at the Gladstone Institutes and UC San Francisco, wasn’t convinced that the virus itself wasn’t a cause.

Navigating social distancing requirements that complicated lab work, Akassoglou and her collaborators conducted a series of experiments in mice to explore the pernicious role of the coronavirus’s spike protein.

They discovered that beyond serving as the virus’s “key” to enter cells, spike binds with a blood clotting factor called fibrinogen, creating structurally abnormal, inflammation-promoting clumps of fibrin — the insoluble material that forms the mesh-like structures essential for wound healing.

High levels of these abnormal clots not only push the body’s clotting system into overdrive, increasing clot formation and inflammation, but also suppress natural killer cells — the immune system’s virus-clearing soldiers.

When this damaging cycle occurs alongside a breakdown in the protective layer of cells around the brain’s blood vessels, toxins and bloodborne proteins, including fibrin, can seep into the body’s most vital organ. Once there, these substances activate microglia — the brain’s immune cells —which begin attacking healthy brain cells, contributing to the neurological symptoms of long Covid.

Akassoglou had been studying this damaging cascade for decades in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Still, until SARS-CoV-2 came along, she had no idea it could be triggered by a viral infection.

“For some reason, this virus has evolved to interfere with the coagulation system in a way that other viruses do not,” she told me. Fibrin’s role in driving toxic inflammation is common in many diseases, but “in the presence of spike, it gets a lot worse.”

In experiments with mice lacking fibrinogen, Covid leads to much less inflammation, and the infection clears faster. “Studies suggest that if you deplete fibrin, inflammation improves, no matter what initially triggers it.”

Although Akassoglou’s focus has been on the brain, she’s hopeful this research will be expanded to understand the effects on the heart, liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract.

In the meantime, she’s developing a way to halt this damaging reaction. A first-in-class antibody treatment designed to specifically block fibrin’s toxic effects entered early-stage patient studies in May, with no reported safety concerns so far.

Results are expected next year and could lead to more advanced clinical trials to test the immunotherapy’s potential to treat not only long Covid but also other serious diseases like multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s.

[plumbits]

Leptospirosis: What it is, what it does, and how you can protect yourself and your pets.

People always have questions about leptospirosis (lepto) when they come into the clinic, especially in regards to the vaccine. This post will hopefully clear up those questions or any confusion regarding lepto and its vaccine, and why it's so serious. The information in this post comes from my formal education as a LVT, as well as other sources including the CDC, PAHO, and AVMA. If I missed anything or you see something that's incorrect, please let me know!

First and foremost: What is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that effects human and non-human animals. It's caused by bacteria in the genus Leptospira. In humans, it can cause a wide range of symptoms that can be very general. This leads to misdiagnoses. Animals such as dogs, livestock, and certain wildlife are all susceptible to infection.

How is leptospirosis spread?

Lepto is most often spread through contact with the urine of an infected animal. This is especially the case (but not the only case) with wild rodents. Infected dogs can seem healthy, but still pass the bacteria on in their urine. In urine-soaked soil, the bacteria can survive for weeks to months.

Dogs typically become infected when their mucous membranes or open wounds come into contact with urine or urine contaminated surfaces (like soil or water). Infection can also be spread through urine-contaminated bedding or food, or the tissues from the carcass of an infected animal. There have been rare instances where lepto has been transmitted by bite or breeding. A pregnant dog who is infected may pass the bacteria to her puppies through the placenta.

Humans contract lepto pretty much the same way: through contact with urine from an infected animal or urine-contaminated surfaces.

What are the signs and symptoms?

In humans:

High fever

Headache and muscle aches

Chills

Jaundice

Vomiting and diarrhea

Redness of the eyes

Abdominal pain

Rash

Humans can also be asymptomatic, which is particularly concerning. It usually takes anywhere from 2 days to 4 weeks post-exposure to the infection source before any symptoms are displayed. The illness begins abruptly and it may occur in 2 phases. The first phase is where you will see a lot of the general symptoms listed above. The person infected may recover for a period of time, but become ill again. The second phase is more severe, leading to kidney or liver failure, and possible meningitis. The illness can last a few days to 3 weeks or longer.

Without treatment, recovery can take several months.

In dogs:

Signs and symptoms may vary slightly depending on the strain of the infected bacteria. The signs are also very general in dogs, but the most common ones include:

Loss of appetite

Vomiting and diarrhea

Lethargy

Abdominal pain

Jaundice

Dehydration

Increased thirst and urination

Weight loss

Stiffness or muscle pain

The disease can also progress to kidney and liver failure in dogs, with damage to other organ systems also noted in the literature. Lepto can also cause bleeding disorders, which can lead to blood in urine, vomit, feces, or saliva, and petechiae on the mucous membranes or light colored skin.

Who is most at risk?

For humans, those who are most at risk include those who work with animals or outdoors where you come into contact with wildlife. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) also mentions that sewer workers and military personnel are at-risk populations. Farmers (and generally people who work with livestock) also make the list, as do veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary assistants.

For dogs, it's all of them. "All dogs are at risk of leptospirosis, regardless of age, breed, lifestyle, geographic location, time of year, and other factors." (source: AVMA)

Situations that can increase the risk of your dog contracting leptospirosis are listed below:

Exposure to drinking from slow-moving or stagnant water sources (this includes puddles)

Roaming on rural property

Exposure to wild animals or farm animals, even if it's only in the yard

Contact with other dogs (such as in urban areas, dog parks, boarding, or training facilities.

How is leptospirosis treated and diagnosed?

Disclaimer: I am NOT a medical doctor or DVM, but I am an LVT. If you think you're experiencing these symptoms, PLEASE go see your doctor. If you think your dog or any of your other animals are experiencing these symptoms, PLEASE take them to your vet.

Diagnosis in non-human animals:

Unfortunately, routine blood tests alone cannot diagnose leptospirosis. That's why it's important for your vet to use all information available to them (i.e. diagnostics, signs and symptoms, lifestyle, etc). There WILL be abnormal results for blood work, most likely high liver and/or kidney values and high white blood cell count. There are specific tests available for diagnosing lepto, such as the DNA-PCR and MAT tests. Both may be needed to reach or confirm a diagnosis. False negatives are possible, so your pet may be treated as if they have leptospirosis, even if the test results are negative. False positives are exceedingly rare.

Diagnosis in humans:

Leptospirosis is diagnosed in a similar fashion in humans. A physical exam, blood work, and urinalysis will likely be run. The same style of tests are used: DNA-PCR and MAT.

Treatment in non-human animals:

Leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics and supportive care. Doxycycline is most commonly used, and will likely be prescribed for 2 weeks or more. Supportive care includes hospitalization with IV fluids and management of electrolyte levels. Additional medications and procedures may be necessary.

Treatment in humans:

The treatment is similar in humans, with antibiotics (usually doxycycline). Your doctor may also suggest to take ibuprofen and monitor yourself at home for less severe cases. If the case is severe, then you'll likely spend time in the hospital. Additional medications or procedures may also be necessary.

Outcomes:

In non-human animals:

Leptospirosis is responsive to treatment with antibiotics. Complete recovery is possible, but some animals that survive may be left with chronic kidney and liver disease. Some animals may not survive if the infection has gotten to the point where it causes severe organ damage or the ability of blood to form clots.

In humans:

You can survive leptospirosis. Most cases have either very mild symptoms that go away on their own, or none at all. Without treatment, leptospirosis can cause kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, trouble breathing, and even death. PLEASE go see a doctor if you think you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially together.

Prevention

How can you prevent infection and protect your pets?

For dogs, there's the leptospirosis vaccine. This is an annual vaccine that vaccinates against multiple strains of Leptospira. If you're worried about your dog having a vaccine reaction, let your vet know and they can administer an injection of diphenhydramine (generic benadryl) beforehand, OR you can ask them what the appropriate dose is for your dog and give them the respective amount at home (in tablets or liquid). Vaccine reactions are uncommon, but if they do happen, it's usually immediately after exposure to the vaccine. You can ask to stick around in the lobby/waiting area of your vet clinic for a few extra minutes if you're still concerned.

Limit your dog's access to standing water. Don't let them drink from it. Prevent rodent problems where you can by properly storing food items in appropriate containers, securing your garbage, and patching up any access points into your house if you see them. Try to avoid contact with wildlife, when possible.

For humans, the recommendations remain similar. Don't wade or swim in stagnant water, ESPECIALLY if you have open wounds. Avoid contact with wildlife. WASH YOUR HANDS, often and appropriately. USE PPE if you work in a veterinary setting and properly clean and disinfect surfaces and equipment. Make sure you know or research the area that you're in if you like swimming and boating. Check to see if there have been any recent lepto infections. Cover your scrapes and wounds with waterproof bandages and wear water shoes if possible.

I hope this post answered a lot of your questions! Thanks for reading.

Sources under the cut.

Sources:

[healthcare-gomedii]

Success Rate of Kidney Treatment in India

Kidney disease means there is damage to your kidneys; hence aren’t working properly. Many kidney conditions are “chronic” because the kidney function worsens over time. The success rate of kidney treatment in India is between 90%-95%.

[mineralsrocksandfossiltalks]

Monday Musings: Copper and Your Health

Did you know that copper is a mineral that we need in our bodies? In fact, there are several metals we need to live healthy lives. What exactly do we need copper for? A few things actually. It is needed for the normal growth and development of human fetuses, infants and children.

In adults, it is necessary for the growth, development and maintenance of bone, connective tissue, brain, heart and many other body organs.

Copper is involved in the formation of red blood cells, the absorption and utilization of iron, and the synthesis and release of life-sustaining proteins and enzymes. These enzymes produce cellular energy and regulate nerve transmission, blood clotting and oxygen transport.

Copper is also known to stimulate the immune system, help repair injured tissues and promote healing. Copper has been shown to help neutralize "free radicals," which can cause severe damage to cells.

Despite all its uses, we only need about .9 mg of copper a day. Crazy right?

Where do I get copper in my diet? Copper-rich foods include grains, nuts and seeds, organ meats such as liver and kidneys, shellfish, dried fruits, legume vegetables like string beans and potatoes, chicken and some unexpected and delightful sources such as cocoa and chocolate.

I don't know about you, but several of those are definitely in my diet.

Okay, next question, what happens if I don't get enough copper in my diet? A deficiency in copper is one factor leading to an increased risk of developing high cholesterol levels and coronary heart disease in humans. Copper deficiencies are also associated with premature births, chronic diarrhea and stomach diseases.

But of course, there are also risks if you consume too much copper too. It can cause nausea but thankfully, it's really hard to hit toxic levels of copper. Just don't go around eating copper wire and you should be fine.

The last fun fact I have for you is that there are clinical trials in effect right now to see if frequently touched surfaces and air ventilation systems in hospitals made out of copper or copper alloys can help stem bacterial infections in hospitals. Copper has some antimicrobial abilities and they are hoping it can stop infections of deadly diseases like MRSA.

Initial studies at the University of Southampton, UK, and tests subsequently performed at ATS-Labs in Eagan, Minnesota, for the EPA show that copper-base alloys containing 65% or more copper are effective against:

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Staphylococcus aureus

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis (VRE)

Enterobacter aerogenes

Escherichia coli O157:H7 and

Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Wild stuff, am I right? Who knew copper could be so useful outside of conducting electricity? Hope you enjoyed today's musings. Tune in tomorrow for one last trivia on copper before December is upon us! (I can't believe it's almost December. What happened to November?) Fossilize you later!

[darkmaga-returns]

I decided to query ChatGPT.

Then came the flood:

Looking for specific instances where people diagnosed with a disease were prescribed a drug, the drug caused new symptoms, those symptoms were mistakenly labeled a new disease, and the mistake was discovered and exposed.There have been several instances in medical history where a drug prescribed for a specific disease caused side effects or symptoms that were mistaken for a new or different disease. Here are a few notable examples:1. Phenacetin and Analgesic Nephropathy Scenario: Phenacetin was an analgesic widely used from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century for pain relief, particularly in combination with other drugs in over-the-counter painkillers. New Symptoms: Prolonged use of phenacetin caused damage to the kidneys, leading to a condition known as analgesic nephropathy. Symptoms included hypertension, proteinuria, and reduced kidney function, which were often misinterpreted as a new form of kidney disease. Discovery: In the 1960s and 1970s, studies linked phenacetin to kidney damage, leading to its ban or withdrawal from the market in many countries. The realization that the symptoms were not from a new disease but rather a side effect of the drug itself changed treatment practices.2. Tardive Dyskinesia and Antipsychotic Drugs Scenario: In the mid-20th century, antipsychotic drugs like chlorpromazine and haloperidol were prescribed to treat schizophrenia and other psychiatric conditions. New Symptoms: Patients developed involuntary, repetitive movements, particularly of the face and limbs, a condition known as tardive dyskinesia. For some time, these symptoms were mistakenly thought to be part of the underlying psychiatric disease or a new neurological disorder. Discovery: By the 1960s, it was recognized that tardive dyskinesia was actually a side effect of long-term antipsychotic use. This discovery led to changes in prescribing practices, with more caution and monitoring for side effects.3. Rofecoxib (Vioxx) and Cardiovascular Events Scenario: Rofecoxib (Vioxx) was a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) approved in 1999 to treat pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis. New Symptoms: Patients using Vioxx experienced a higher incidence of heart attacks and strokes. Initially, these events were thought to be unrelated or attributed to the patients' underlying conditions. Discovery: In 2004, studies demonstrated that Vioxx significantly increased the risk of cardiovascular events. The manufacturer, Merck, withdrew the drug from the market. This case underscored the need for thorough post-marketing surveillance of pharmaceuticals.4. Thalidomide and Birth Defects Scenario: Thalidomide was prescribed in the late 1950s and early 1960s to pregnant women as a treatment for morning sickness. New Symptoms: Babies born to mothers who took thalidomide were born with severe limb deformities, initially thought to be caused by a new congenital disease. Discovery: In 1961, it was identified that thalidomide was the cause of these birth defects. The drug was subsequently banned for use in pregnant women, leading to stricter drug regulation practices worldwide.5. Valproate and Congenital Malformations Scenario: Valproate, an antiepileptic drug, was widely prescribed for epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraines. New Symptoms: Children born to mothers who took valproate during pregnancy exhibited congenital malformations, developmental delays, and cognitive impairments. Initially, these were considered isolated conditions or attributed to genetic factors. Discovery: Over time, epidemiological studies established a clear link between prenatal exposure to valproate and these adverse outcomes. Health authorities now advise against valproate use during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.Would you like more examples or a deeper dive into any of these specific cases?

I’d like more examples.

[breezingby]

Potential Health Benefits

Honey has many potential health benefits, including: (here's just a Few)…

Anti-inflammatory

Honey contains an enzyme called catalase that can help relieve minor inflammation. It can be used topically to treat burns and wounds, and orally to treat coughs and sore throats.

Antibacterial and antiviral

Honey can help fight infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It can also be used to treat acne by dabbing a small amount onto pimples to reduce swelling and fight bacteria.

Antioxidant

Honey contains antioxidants like phenolic acids and flavonoids, which may help improve cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart disease. Honey can also help prevent and treat degenerative diseases.

Studies suggest that honey might offer antidepressant, anticonvulsant and anti-anxiety benefits. In some studies, honey has been shown to help prevent memory disorders. Wound care. Topical use of medical-grade honey has been shown to promote wound healing, particularly in burns.

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Cinnamon has many potential health benefits, including:

Blood sugar

Cinnamon may help lower blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. It may also improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance factor (GTf), which can help with weight loss.

In addition to being an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anticancer, lipid-lowering, and cardiovascular-disease-lowering compound, cinnamon has also been reported to have activities against neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.

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Ginger has many health benefits, including:

Digestion: Gingerol, a natural compound in ginger, can help with digestion, nausea, and vomiting from motion sickness, pregnancy, and cancer chemotherapy. It can also help with mild stomach upset.

Anti-inflammatory: Ginger contains over 400 natural compounds, some of which are anti-inflammatory. It can help with bloating, gas, and reducing inflammation.

Pain relief: Ginger can help with osteoarthritis pain, menstrual cramps, and sore muscles.

Blood sugar: Ginger can help improve blood sugar regulation and lower blood sugar.

Heart health: Ginger can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which can help prevent heart disease. It can also improve circulation and promote the breakdown of fats in the bloodstream.

Immune system: Ginger can help strengthen the immune system and fight germs.

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Turmeric ~ In addition to these conditions, research studies have shown some possible benefits of turmeric for:

Inflammation

Degenerative eye conditions

Metabolic syndrome

Arthritis

Hyperlipidemia (cholesterol in the blood)

Anxiety

Muscle soreness after exercise

Kidney health

In India, it was traditionally used for disorders of the skin, upper respiratory tract, joints, and digestive system. Today, turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression, and many others.

.......

Chili peppers contain many compounds that may have health benefits, including:

Capsaicin The chemical that gives chili peppers their heat, capsaicin may help with:

Pain relief: Chili peppers can help with headaches, migraines, and joint pain. You can apply chili peppers directly to the skin to reduce the amount of a chemical that sends pain signals to the brain.

Metabolism: Capsaicin can increase your metabolic rate, which can help you burn more calories and eat fewer unhealthy foods. Some studies have also shown that capsaicin can reduce appetite and increase fat burning, which may help with weight loss.

Inflammation: Capsaicin is one of the most studied natural ingredients for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Digestion: Capsaicin can help clear phlegm and congestion, and may promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for a healthy immune system.

Vitamin A and vitamin C: Chili peppers are a great source of both vitamins, which can help boost your immune system and support eye health. Vitamin C can also help your body absorb iron and promote healthy skin.

Carotenoids: Chili peppers contain carotenoids, which may help protect against cancer. Some research suggests that capsaicin may also contribute to cancer cell death.

Keep in Mind

Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.

Using Dietary Supplements Wisely

Know the Science: How Medications and Supplements Can Interact

Know the Science: How To Make Sense of a Scientific Journal Article