Author: Jean Surkouf Ariza Varela

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: Understanding the Genetic Cause of Early-Onset COPD and Treatment Options

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: Understanding the Genetic Cause of Early-Onset COPD and Treatment Options

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic cause of early-onset COPD that affects 1 in 2,000-5,000 people. Often missed, it can be managed with augmentation therapy and lifestyle changes. Testing is critical for those with unexplained lung or liver disease.

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How to Talk to Your Doctor About Staying on Brand Medication: A Patient's Guide

How to Talk to Your Doctor About Staying on Brand Medication: A Patient's Guide

Learn how to effectively communicate with your doctor about staying on brand medication instead of generics. Includes preparation tips, communication strategies, insurance considerations, and common scenarios where brand is necessary.

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Renal Diet: Managing Sodium, Potassium, and Phosphorus for Kidney Health

Renal Diet: Managing Sodium, Potassium, and Phosphorus for Kidney Health

Learn how to manage sodium, potassium, and phosphorus in a renal diet for chronic kidney disease. Practical tips, food lists, and expert advice to protect kidney function and prevent complications.

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OTC Gas and Bloating Remedies: Simethicone vs Enzyme Products Explained

OTC Gas and Bloating Remedies: Simethicone vs Enzyme Products Explained

Learn how simethicone and enzyme products like Beano and Lactaid work differently to relieve gas and bloating. Find out which one is right for your symptoms and when to use them together.

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OTC Cold Medicine Safety in Children: Age Limits and Risks

OTC Cold Medicine Safety in Children: Age Limits and Risks

OTC cold medicines pose serious risks to children under 4 with no proven benefit. Learn the age limits, dangers, and safe alternatives backed by medical guidelines.

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ADHD Treatment: Stimulants, Non-Stimulants, and Behavioral Strategies That Work

ADHD Treatment: Stimulants, Non-Stimulants, and Behavioral Strategies That Work

ADHD treatment works best with a mix of stimulants, non-stimulants, and behavioral strategies. Learn how each works, their side effects, and what actually helps long-term.

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Repeat Colonoscopy: When to Get Another After Polyp Removal

Repeat Colonoscopy: When to Get Another After Polyp Removal

After polyp removal, knowing when to schedule your next colonoscopy can prevent colon cancer. Learn the latest evidence-based intervals for adenomas, serrated polyps, and high-risk cases - and why many doctors still get it wrong.

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Managing Medication Allergies and Finding Safe Alternatives

Managing Medication Allergies and Finding Safe Alternatives

Most people who think they're allergic to penicillin aren't. Learn how to tell the difference between a true drug allergy and a side effect, get tested safely, and find the right alternatives without risking worse health outcomes.

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How to Coordinate Mail-Order and Local Pharmacy to Save Money on Medications

How to Coordinate Mail-Order and Local Pharmacy to Save Money on Medications

Learn how to save hundreds a year on prescriptions by smartly using mail-order and local pharmacies together. Discover which meds to order online, which to pick up locally, and how to avoid common cost traps.

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GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss: Real Benefits and Common Side Effects

GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss: Real Benefits and Common Side Effects

GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy and Zepbound can help people lose 15-20% of body weight, but they come with nausea, high costs, and the need for lifelong use. Learn how they work, who they’re for, and what happens when you stop.

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