Tag Archives: side effects

Smoking May Increase Your Risk of Having a Cross-Eyed Baby

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Let’s review some of the many problems that smoking can cause for growing families: 1. Studies have found a link between smoking and infertility. 2. If you do conceive, and you continue to smoke, the consequences become more and more devastating. During pregnancy, smoking can lead to complications such as miscarriage, low birth weight and even still birth. 3. After pregnancy, smoking continues to put infants at risk. Smoking in the home has been linked to an increased risk of SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. 4. It also leads to behavioral problems in children, such as ADHD, or Attention … Continue reading →

Fun with Hormones!

I was on birth control for part of my twenties… and I have to say, I really liked it. I enjoyed the regular periods and the lack of PMS symptoms. It was great knowing exactly when things would start and end. But once I wasn’t sexually active (between relationships, you see), I stopped taking birth control. I didn’t need it for the birth control aspect, and my periods stayed relatively regular for a few years after I stopped the hormones. The doctor I saw at the teaching clinic said that he thought “birth control” wasn’t the best name. For women … Continue reading →

Antibiotics and Side Effects

I’m about halfway through my ten days of antibiotics after a recent cat bite (from my work at the cats-only boarding facility) got infected. When I picked up my prescriptions — two different antibiotics for one little cat bite, sheesh — the pharmacist warned me that I might experience some photosensitivity. Did I ever! The first few days were rough, and I relied heavily on my prescription sunglasses and long sleeved shirts. The drive home from work in the afternoon was enough to leave me with the beginnings of a sunburn. Thankfully, the photosensitivity has eased off as I’ve gotten … Continue reading →

The Right Foods Can Counteract Drug Side Effects

At some point in your life, you’ll most likely be taking a prescription medicine. Maybe it’ll be short term; maybe it’ll be long term. Some long term prescriptions can deplete essential nutrients from your body, but a few small dietary changes can help. Statins — drugs that can help lower cholesterol — can deplete levels of coenzyme Q10. This can leave you with sore muscles, elevated liver enzymes, and feelings of fatigue. Adding more lean meat, chicken, and fish to your diet can help boost levels of coenzyme Q10. Medications for high blood pressure, like vasodilators or beta-blockers can deplete … Continue reading →