For the patient running out of options, our do-or-die culture seems to offer an endless supply of yet another experimental treatment, or one more drug trial. Yet its flip-side is the reality of precious hours spent in treatments that may never work, away from family members; or the endurance of horrific side-effects piled on top of an already devastating illness. Where is the tipping point, and do we physicians have an obligation to help our patients weigh these agonizing choices?

I look for cues in my patients to tell me when they are ready to shift the focus away from continuing the fight, and towards the creation of a safe space where they can prepare for the end of their life. That decision is exclusively and entirely theirs, of course, and I consider myself deeply privileged to be a part of it. I’ve treated people who’ve chosen to spend their final days half-way around the world, literally dragging themselves to one more treatment. And I’ve watched a Native American family chant around their grandfather’s hospital bed, drowning out the sound of heart monitors and breathing machines.

I’ve practiced medicine for over 35 years now, and will never cease to be humbled by the courage and dignity of my patients facing the unfathomable decision of when to say enough is enough.

First, make sure to consult the MWRA website regularly, as they offer detailed instructions on boiling and treating water, safe food preparation, etc.

And because many of our patients have weakened digestive tracts and immune systems to begin with, I want to make some suggestions to strengthen the bowel lining, if it should be exposed to abnormal bacteria and parasites. These are basically the same recommendations that I make when people travel to areas with questionable water supplies.

One is a strong probiotic. We use either TruFlora (needs refrigeration) or UltraFlora DF (does not need refrigeration). One capsule twice daily during times of exposure should suffice.

Second, we use the herbal antiparasitic supplement Para-Gard. Two capsules AM and PM after meals is the proper dose.

Third, we use a pre-biotic, L-Glutamine, to strengthen the bowel wall. I recommend L-Glutamine FOS powder, 1/2 teaspoon twice a day, in water that has been at a rolling boil for two minutes, of course.

Preventing and Healing Sunburns

For people with cardiac disease, even simple activities — such as going to the mailbox or walking the dog — can be challenging.

If you are one of these people, take heart. There is a non-invasive treatment called EECP therapy that clinical experience has shown to be safe and to have benefit for the treatment of angina and heart failure. Approximately 80% of patients who complete the 35-hour course of EECP therapy experience significant symptom relief that may last up to three years.

Watch a video and learn more about EECP: http://tinyurl.com/dfcnpj

To learn more, call our Arlington offices 781-641-1901

Hyperbaric treatment for children with autism has reportedly led to improvements in the condition, though previous studies were uncontrolled. Now, a new study published in the open access journal, BMC Pediatrics, is the first controlled trial to report clinical improvements.
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-03/bc-htf031109.php  

We understand that in this economy, budgets are necessary.  We want you to stay healthy this spring without breaking the bank by taking advantage of our Spring Fever Discount 

15% off all apothecary items

Offer Valid March 20th, 2009 – May 31st, 2009. 
Not to be combined with any other discounts.   

This applies for all orders whether they are placed online, in person, or over the phone.  

To order by phone:  508.830.1201

Email: sarar@wholehealthne.com

Online: www.wholehealthne.com/apothecary

Free shipping on all orders over $150.00 (after all discounts).

Beth Shuman, SkinCeuticals, will educate you in what tolook for in sunscreens, preventive and corrective products. With the use of a Skin Scope, Beth will show you firsthand how the sun has affected your underlying skin.

When: Wednesday 4/22/2009
Where: The Rothfeld Center, Arlington
Time: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
To Register: email lgreen@wholehealthne.com or call 781-641-1901

Lunch and beverages will be provided. Space is limited, prior registration is required.
Lunch and Learn events  are open to all patients, friends, and family.

Spring Fever Special: All SkinCeuticals products will be discounted by 15%. This special runs 3/21/09-5/31/09!

All Lunch and Learn participants will receive a 20% discount on SkinCeuticals kits  purchased at the event.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeLipNtG6vY&feature=player_embedded

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