This and that!

[Guest guest]

Just a comment on various matters from recent mailings. Ibubrofen can be

got OTC but Diclofenac, another anti-immflammatory (also known as Voltarol),

is by prescription. Neither should be taken for longer than neccessary and

special precautions need to be taken with gastric reflux, other stomach

problems and some heart and asthmatic patients. Some doctors prescribe a

stomach protector such as Omeprazole as part of the course of treatment.

A knowledgeable bronchiectasis patient should be able to get an antibiotic

quickly but an open script can be fraught with difficulties. It might be

better to have a small supply available to begin a course until seeing the

doctor. Mailings have been posted in the past in which negative cultures

have shown up even when a flare-up of infection is supected. The main worry

for all of us these days and especially doctors, is over subscribing of

antibiotics leading to more resistant organisms which puts us all at risk.

MRSA is one of the main talking points in the UK.

With regard to the ways in which patients are treated by doctors, it should

be borne in mind that they are governed by protocols. They are often

obliged to follow certain guidelines in particular situations. Also I think

on balance that I would rather be treated by a doctor who admitted not

knowing a particular treatment than one who thought he/she did! A good

bedside manner is important in my book as well as a doctor who listens.

Regrettably more research money goes into the more 'glamorous' diseases such

as cancer than those which have higher morbidity rather than mortality

rates. A well as bronchiectasis, more needs to be done for for those who

suffer from athritis and Crohns Disease for example. If a doctor has a

desire to get rich from private practice, bronchiectasis is not top of the

specialisms - plastic surgery, heart and gynae are more lucrative!

With regard to immune boosters Echinacea and vitamin C are fine for many

people. Personally I think that there is nothing better than zinc for those

who can take it. I think that nothing should be taken without a taking

break from time to time to offset cumulative effects.

Sorry for the long mailing!

Tony