Sunday, December 6, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Never heard of it? Watch this video and learn how a young race car driver wanted to make a difference, and even though he was killed, his parents went on to see it through. It's all about the love and passion to have compassion. A camp where sick kids can go, for free, in a medically safe environement, and have fun for a few days.
Grab a tissue it's a poignant story.
http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=4527308
May 08, 2006
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome is a complex condition caused by orthostatic intolerance, which means intolerance to change from the supine position to an upright position.
This change in position causes an abnormally high increase in heart rate, often accompanied by a sharp fall in blood pressure. The orthostatic tachycardia syndrome is a disabling state described since 1940. Patients are often unable to hold jobs or attend schools. POTS is common, affecting an undisclosed number of patients mostly in the age range of 12 to 50 years and mostly female (approximately 80%).
Symptoms of POTS
The most common symptoms of this condition are:
* Increased heart rate - This is definitely the main sign of POTS. The heart rate when changing from the supine to upright position can vary for more than 30 beats per minute or lead to a heart rate greater than 120 beats per minute within 10 minutes of stand-up position. POTS often generates a temporary rise in blood pressure immediately upon standing due to the rapid acceleration of the heart rate. Tachycardia is the body’s defense mechanism against the lack of sufficient venous blood returned to the heart.
* Frequent urination - Frequent urination is a common symptom of POTS. This problem is sometimes misdiagnosed as diabetes insipidus, which is a disease caused by the reduced production of a pituitary hormone called vasopressin.
* Reactive hypoglycemia - Reactive hypoglycemia is a common problem for POTS patients. It is a term used for abnormal lowering of the blood sugar levels. Although the complete mechanism still isn't clear, it is believed that it happens as a result of a complex series of neural and hormonal interactions. Researchers have come to understand that this lowering of blood sugar levels is not the only cause of symptoms, because patients’ bodies are also producing excessive amounts of adrenaline and other stress hormones.
* fatigue,
* nausea,
* shortness of breath
* dizziness,
* blurry vision and eye pain,
* tingling in the legs,
* sweating,
* numbness in palms and soles,
* difficulties with sleeping,
* heat and fatigue,
* headache,
* low grade fevers, mild chills, and general flu like symptoms,
* syncope
Possible causes of POTS
Not many people know that, even though the upright posture is a fundamental human activity, it requires several rapid and effective circulatory and neurological compensations in order to maintain blood pressure and consciousness.
Almost immediately after assuming the upright posture, gravity causes a redistribution of about 500 ml of blood to the lower extremities. One half of this amount is redistributed within seconds after standing up and up to 25% of the total blood volume may be involved in the process. This causes a decrease in venous return to heart and stroke volume may fall by 40%. In a normal subject, orthostatic stabilization after standing up is achieved in 1 min or less.
Anyway, our understanding of the pathophysiology of this condition remains incomplete. While the etiology of POTS is still unclear, it probably represents a heterogeneous group of disorders with similar clinical characteristics.
Heart problems
It is logical to assume that, because the heart is the central blood pump, a weak or irregular heart can cause orthostatic hypotension. The conditions that can affect the heart in such manner are:
* arrhythmia,
* heart failure, and
* pregnancy
These are the examples where the heart may not be up to the task of providing an adequate blood pressure. Since the heart is not pumping the blood strong enough, the pressure drops significantly.
Hypovolemia
The other possible causes not associated with the heart are anemia, dehydration or dialysis which are causing the the blood volume in the bloodstream to become insufficient. The condition is called Hypovolemia.
Blood vessels conditions
The blood vessels may also be the problem. Their role isn't just passive conduction of the blood. The blood vessels in the body also can squeeze to raise the blood pressure, and if this action is prevented for some reason, the blood pressure may fall. The most common reason behind the loss of this function of the blood vessels are different medications. Numerous medications affect blood vessels including most of the medications used for blood pressure, and many of the medications used in psychiatry and for heart pain. Heat, such as a hot shower or from a fever can also dilate blood vessels and cause orthostasis.
Nervous system problems
The nervous system normally senses and responds to regulate blood pressure. There are several neurological mechanisms of controlling blood pressure which affect heart pumping, blood vessels, kidneys etc. If something is wrong with this control system, the blood pressure may fluctuate.
Ear vestibular problems
It is proven that vestibular disorders may interact with blood pressure and heart rate control. The vestibular system is a source of information about uprightness and the whole system is localized in inner ear.
Medications
Medication related pressure drop could be caused by high doses of blood pressure or depression medications.
Drugs that can cause or worsen orthostatic intolerance:
* A-Receptor blockers
* Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors
* B-Blockers
* Bromocriptine
* Calcium channel blockers
* Diuretics
* Ethanol
* Ganglionic blocking agents
* Hydralazine
* Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
* Nitrates
* Opiates
* Phenothiazines
* Sildenafil citrate (Viagra)
* Tricyclic antidepressants
Primary adrenal insufficiency
Persons with primary adrenal insufficiency usually have symptoms of glucocorticoid deficiency and low blood pressure. Their skin may be dark, serum potassium high, and there may be associated hypothyroidism, diabetes and vitiligo.
POTS can be caused by genetically inherited neurotransmitter disorders, including disorders of catecholamine production and release, such as Norepinephrine-Transporter Deficiency.
Grades of orthostatic intolerance
Most researchers classify the syndrome as primary or secondary.
The primary form is not associated with other disease states, while the secondary form occurs in conjunction with a known disease or disorder. The most frequently encountered form of POTS is referred to as the partial dysautonomic form. These patients appear to have a mild form of peripheral autonomic neuropathy in which the peripheral vasculature cannot initiate or maintain vascular resistance in the face of gravitational stress.
Depending on the severity of symptoms, this syndrome can be divided into grades:
Grade 0
Normal orthostatic tolerance
Grade I
Orthostatic symptoms are infrequent or occur only under conditions of increased orthostatic stress. Patient is able to stand less then 15 minutes on most occasions. Subject typically has unrestricted activities of daily living.
Grade II
Orthostatic symptoms are frequent, developing at least once a week. Orthostatic symptoms commonly develop with orthostatic stress. Subject is able to stand less than 5 minutes on most occasions.
Some limitation in activities of daily living is typical.
Grade III
Orthostatic symptoms develop on most occasions and are regularly unmasked by orthostatic stresses. Subject is able to stand less than 1 minute on most occasions. Patient is seriously incapacitated, being in bed or wheelchair. Syncope is common if patient attempts to stand. Symptoms may vary with time and state of hydration as well as other circumstances. Orthostatic stresses include prolonged standing, meals, exertion, and head stress.
Diagnosis and management
The most critical aspect of evaluation is the patient’s history. The patient needs to elicit the information about the onset of symptoms: were they sudden or gradual and what makes the symptoms worse or better should be the most important questions. A careful physical exam is also crucial.
POTS is correctly diagnosed on the basis of the heart rate increase and heart waveform signature revealed by electrocardiogram, not on the basis of a drop in blood pressure, as is the case with orthostatic hypotension and neuro-mediated hypotension.
Treatment of POTS
Treating patients with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome is often very difficult.
Non-drug treatment
This treatment proved to be very effective and carries a low-risk from complications. Adding lots of extra salt to the diet can increase both blood volume and blood pressure by increasing the fluid retention. Expanding blood volume is a precise mechanism. A high salt diet should only be tried under the recommendation and supervision of a doctor. There are some special salt tablets on the market but pouring lots of ordinary table salt in the food works better for most people.
Patients with POTS should definitely avoid garlic and nitrates in food since they lower the blood pressure. Regular exercise on a daily basis is the most important aspect of any good treatment. Most people don’t know this but during the exercises, muscles produce a natural vasoconstriction hormone norepinephrine. A good muscle tone, especially in the legs, helps limit abnormal blood vessel dilation and blood pooling.
Meditation may help some patients reduce stress, feel more rested and alert, and often has a mild analgesic effect, reducing the perception of bodily aches and pains. It works as a natural pain reliever.
Having two strong cups of coffee in the morning have also shown to be very beneficial.
Medications
Medical treatments for POTS do exist but they are rarely curative and are often incompletely palliative. The most commonly used medications are:
* Beta blockers
* Florinef
* Midodrine
Author's biography SirGan is doing his specialization in neurosurgery at Portugal. He is interested in expertise for radiosurgery, as well as treatment of brain tumors, and currently he is studying interventional radiology.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Cats & Young Deer in Yard
Sunday, August 30, 2009
1pm EST www.Blogtalkradio.com/Sophiasplace
Fabulous Ragtime pianist.
Listen live or from the archive at your convenience.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/sophiasplace
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Been remiss with show updates. Lots going on. Not doing a show this week..back on Sept.1, 2009
You can listen to last weeks mix up of different kinds of music here, and go thru the archives.
Take time to smell the flowers, and enjoy nature.
www.blogtalkradio.com/Sophiasplace
Monday, August 3, 2009
Tuesday 1pm EST! Tomorrow. I've never done an all Dino song but love his music. So mix up a lunchtime Martini or some coffee and enjoy, Live or from the archives at YOUR convenience.30 minutes or so. No talking between songs, either. Click on the link below for BlogTalkRadio to hear the tunes at 1pm or later in the archive.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/sophiasplace
Friday, July 10, 2009
Tuesday's Music Show 1pm EST
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/sophiasplace
Lagniappe's John Mooter in photo, courtesy of yours truly.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Imitation Chocolate Eclair Dessert
CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE | |
FILLING: 2 pkgs. French vanilla (instant) pudding, smaller size 3 1/2 c. cold milk 1 (8 oz.) Cool Whip 1 box graham crackers (don't crush) TOPPING: 2 tbsp. soft butter 2 sqs. unsweetened chocolate 3 tbsp. milk 2 tbsp. Karo light corn syrup 1 1/2 c. confectioners' sugar Grease 9 x 13 inch (I use a smaller 8x11 inch glass pan as it makes the layers thicker and looks prettier ) pan with butter (I also do not grease the pan, not necessary!) Line with graham crackers. Mix pudding and milk for 3 minutes. Add Cool Whip. Fold in. Pour 1/2 of the mixture over crackers. Add another layer of crackers. Add remaining filling. Add another layer of crackers. Mix butter and melted chocolate together. Add remaining ingredients. Mix well and frost. Refrigerate several hours. My ex-Mother-in-Law gave this to me. I detest instant pudding but this is good for a cool summer dessert. Make sure to make it night before so the graham crackers soften. Or at least 8 hours in advance. Use 2% milk or richer. 1% or skim is not as good. Also do NOT substitute vanilla instant pudding for FRENCH Vanilla. I usually hate French vanilla but it gives the oomph in this one. Granted, I never make a dessert with pre-made stuff but this is an exception to me. Yes you can taste chemicals in it but it's a great dessert for summer. Just KEEP COLD. Do not put on outside table in heat! I also make my own semi-sweet icing with Hershey's cocoa, not a fan of chocolate squares but this is the original deal she gave me. The recipe is in my head but not on paper. If you don't want to make frosting, you can use canned DARK Chocolate Frosting but to me, it's too sweet. Making a semi -sweet, almost bitter sweet frosting is an excellent compliment to the sweet filling. |
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Hello, been remiss in my blog updates and shows. But more music coming up.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Sophiasplace/2009/07/07/Midday-with-Sophia
Willie, Wynton, Ella, & Others Blues/Jazz (re-scheduled)
Sophia's Place
Date / Time: 7/7/2009 1:00 PMCategory: EntertainmentCall-in Number: (347) 843-476
Monday, May 4, 2009
Margarita Recipe
You will need Tequila (we always used SILVER Label Hose Cuervo for mildness)
A good brand of Triple Sec
Base:
1 cup limeade (in frozen foods)
3 cups Sweet and Sour Base (Good brand, used to be Mr. T's)
1/2 Egg White (If afraid leave out but we always used it)
For Drinks
1 cup base mix (shake before measuring)
1/2 cup orange juice, fresh or the NOT from concentrate variety
3 jiggers Tequila
1 jigger Triple Sec
1 cup crushed ice
Put in blender. Pour in glasses rubbed with a lime and dipped in Kosher or Margarita salt.
Enjoy and stay home or have designated driver if you go out and about.
This may seem like quite the investment but I have never found anybody that did not like this recipe. But remember, it's only as good as the ingredients.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Friday, March 20, 2009
Date / Time: 3/23/2009 10:00 PM
Category: Entertainment
Call-in Number: (347) 843-4766
Remember when talk radio was just about normal folks having conversation? About big things, and little things? Before political talk took over the airwaves? That's what we are trying to bring back. Might have odd news or dumb criminal story to open up the show. Hopefully my sidekick, Lavinia can join me and if you'd like to call us, just let us know in the chat room FIRST, so that I look at the switchboard for your area code. We tend to get side tracked easily but we'd love to hear from you. Oh, and if I take calls it will be one at a time...like land talk radio does. This tends to keep the sound better, too.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Sophiasplace
Sometimes it's an all music show, sometimes it's talk. Lately with Lavinia, it's been talk. :)
Upcoming Episodes
3/30/2009 10:00 PM - Monday night Squawktalk
4/6/2009 10:00 PM - Monday night Squawktalk
4/13/2009 10:00 PM - Monday night Squawktalk
Monday, March 16, 2009
Date / Time: 3/16/2009 10:00 PM
Category: Entertainment
Call-in Number: (347) 843-4766
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Date / Time: 3/9/2009 10:30 PM
Category: Entertainment
Call-in Number: (347) 843-4766
**For some reason, I could NOT BOOK this show at TEN PM so it's half past the hour. 10:30pm EST!!!!DST bug, I dunno. Weird. :-) Topic to be announced.
Upcoming Episodes
3/16/2009 10:00 PM - Squawktalk Take Two Topic TBA
3/23/2009 10:00 PM - Monday night Squawktalk
3/30/2009 10:00 PM - Monday night Squawktalk
Monday, February 23, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Upcoming Episodes
Date / Time: 2/2/2009 10:00 PM
Category: Music
Call-in Number: (347) 843-4766
Time to play some more of George's great stuff. Featuring most of his songs this Monday night. Will play a great New Orleans version of "Just a Closer Walk with Thee"...they start off slow and kick it up towards the end....Will close the show with this classic NOLA tune. From his 1953 CD George Lewis and his Ragtime Band - Hot Creole Jazz
Upcoming Episodes
Friday, January 23, 2009
Date / Time: 1/26/2009 10:00 PM
Category: Music
Call-in Number: (347) 843-4766
Please stop by for the fastest 30 minutes in radio. Will not take calls (sorry to my buddy last week!) as I am trying not to talk myself except to tell song titles. I will organize some music and mix it up with some Creole Music of George Lewis--will open with his "When the Saints", some brass bands, and well, a gumbo of bands.
Upcoming Episodes
2/2/2009 10:00 PM - Sophia's Place
2/9/2009 10:00 PM - Sophia's Place
2/16/2009 10:00 PM - Sophia's Place
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Upcoming Episodes
Jazz & Swing, NOLA Based Tunes
Some uptempo dance tunes based on swing and old jazz songs. Will have a couple of songs by Glenn Miller to kick off the show. So many messages on the energetic Mardi Gras show from last Saturday, will probably feature a few of those songs again. :-) And some different ones. More songs, less talk. That sounds like an old FM station's promo years ago. I can promise you no commercial breaks, or traffic and weather reports, during my show, lol. How's that?
Upcoming Episodes
1/26/2009 10:00 PM - Sophia's Place
2/2/2009 10:00 PM - Sophia's Place
2/9/2009 10:00 PM - Sophia's Place
Monday, January 12, 2009
Listen tonight for some songs by Lyricist Andy Razaf...and then some Louis Armstrong to round out the show.
Check out songs from Saturday nights show (even if I did make a couple of technical goofs! Ha)
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Sophiasplace
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Click here to listen.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Sophiasplace/2009/01/11/Mardi-gras-a-month-early-taste-of-Music
Friday, January 9, 2009
Date / Time: 1/12/2009 10:00 PM
Category: Music
Call-in Number: (347) 843-4766
So, please, stop in Monday night. Only 30 minutes
Monday, January 5, 2009
Hope you can find me in Chat at 10pm.
IF not at www.blogtalkradio.com/Sophiasplace
try www.blogtalkradio.com and click on ON AIR shows and when you see my show listed, should have chat listed.
Aren't upgrades FUN !!!
~~~~~Sophia