Rockwood Clinic surgeon targets varicose veins
More than half of women over age 50 can expect to develop varicose veins, says Dr. Renu Sinha, a Rockwood Clinic surgeon. Sinha will discuss the prevention, causes and treatment of the common condition during a seminar Wednesday in Spokane.
Varicose veins and spider veins can cause discomfort, swelling and leg fatigue, said Sinha, whose presentation is part of HealthTalks, a series of discussions that has continued in the community for 17 years.
“Many factors increase a person’s chance of developing varicose veins or spider veins,” Sinha said in a statement. “Age, a family history of vein problems, gender, obesity and prolonged standing can all contribute to the onset of varicose veins.”
The disease is more prevalent in women, but an estimated 15 percent of men also develop venous disorders.
The presentation, which is free and open to the public, will begin at 7 p.m. in the downtown office of the Spokane Rockwood Clinic, 400 E. Fifth Ave., in the second-floor conference rooms.
A question-and-answer session will follow the main presentation. Space is limited and reservations are recommended. Call (509) 755-6570.
Watch for tick paralysis in llamas, people
Researchers at Washington State University are warning owners of llamas and alpacas of the dangers of tick paralysis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease that can affect the pack animals – and people.
The threat of the disorder increases with the onset of warmer weather, which allows ticks to become active and begin feeding on warm-blooded host animals. The disease occurs when the tick injects the host animal with toxins from their salivary glands.
The incidence of tick paralysis is difficult to determine, researchers said. The occurrence of the disease is sporadic and difficult to predict. Every year, WSU researchers treat or provide consultation on several cases of tick paralysis in llamas and alpacas throughout the Northwest. Human transmission is rare but possible.
“Symptoms of tick paralysis include a rapidly progressing total paralysis over 24 to 72 hours after the ticks attach themselves to the animal,” said Dr. Stacey Byers, a WSU veterinarian. “Untreated, an animal may be unable to chew, swallow, drink or breathe as the paralysis progresses.”
Treatment is rapid and effective. The key is to remove ticks and provide support. Recovery occurs within 48 hours for most animals and people, although it may take longer for llamas and alpacas to improve.
Concerned owners should consult a veterinarian, or, if human infection is suspected, a doctor.
Grants allow cancer screening to continue
The CA.RE Foundation Inc. has extended a $20,000 grant to allow the Panhandle Health District to continue cervical cancer screening and an $11,050 grant for cancer prevention education.
Last year, the grant enabled 86 uninsured women with low incomes to receive care after initial cancer screenings were abnormal.
CA.RE is a nonprofit organization that supports cancer research, prevention and education in North Idaho. Since 2004, the grants have provided cancer screenings and care for 263 women.