It’s not a pretty subject, but it’s a big problem for people who take strong pain killers, particularly those who are in end stage disease. A new medication, Relistor, helps with the often debilitating problem of constipation in these patients. Here’s a quote from today’s news…]]> Medical Updates With Irene Maher 2008-04-25T18:36:00-05:00 http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/life/comments/feedback-on-saturdays-4you-column/ My column in Saturday, April 19th’s edition of 4You in the Tampa Tribune triggered some interesting responses. One reader sent an email telling me she and her husband also purchased beef at unbelievably low prices through military commissaries. She remembers buying 3…]]> Medical Updates With Irene Maher 2008-04-21T21:50:00-05:00 http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/life/comments/for-now-bypass-the-meat-counter/ Diets certainly are different now. In my childhood home, I’m talking the early to late ‘60s, chicken was served on Sundays, roasted whole or cut up and fried. Today, at my grownup house, the freezer is packed with chicken, and you’re likely to find just a couple of small steaks individually…]]> Medical Updates With Irene Maher 2008-04-21T15:21:00-05:00 http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/life/comments/organ-donation-awareness-phone-bank/ So sorry about the computer glitch on Monday, April 7, 2008, during our Eight On Your Side/LifeLink Organ Donation Awareness Phone Bank. Unfortunately, if you signed up on-line to receive a free information packet, you will have to resubmit your request. The link is available on www.tbo.com…]]> Medical Updates With Irene Maher 2008-04-10T19:55:00-05:00 http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/life/comments/aquatic-exercise/ Tonight’s report focuses on the benefits of exercising in warm water. It’s easy on the joints, helps build muscle strength and can improve balance and range of motion. The classes featured in my report are held at Physiotherapy Associates, 35111 US Hway 19 North, Suite 100, Palm Harbor, FL. They are…]]> Medical Updates With Irene Maher 2008-03-28T14:52:00-05:00 http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/life/comments/help-for-caregivers/ I received this news release today and thought some of you might benefit from the information.

The Elder Helpline provides information for older adults and their caregivers…]]> Medical Updates With Irene Maher 2008-03-19T17:15:00-05:00 http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/life/comments/spine-implant/ Tonight’s medical story on a new, experimental spine implant, covers potential pain relief for a lot of people. There are several study sites for this implant but only one in Florida.